Somali Pirates Defy International Community

While the international community moves to deal with the recent hijacking of Ukrainian vessel MV Faina bound for Kenya, the pirates themselves remain defiant, insisting they will not lower their demanded ransom of $20 million US.
The ship, which according to Russia’s Interfax news agency was transporting heavy military equipment and parts, including 30 T-72 tanks, [...]

Ft. Morgan Civil War Ship Uncovered During Hurricane Ike

Reader ‘Angie’ wrote in with questions about the ‘Mystery ship’ uncovered during recent hurricane, “Ike”. Angie asked the following:
“I was just watching the video from NBC news about the mystery ship that was uncovered from hurricane Ike. I wonder who has ownership in a case like that? the state? federal govt? what if it really [...]

Cruise Passangers’ Legal Rights

Cruising the high seas, while often in waters outside US jurisdiction, can leave many vacationers with questions about their legal rights while on board a cruise. Too often, these questions only arise after an event takes place that calls for this information. Before leaving port, cruise passengers should be sure to have the following [...]

SS Morro Castle catalyst for Merchant Marine Act of 1936

A nor’easter turned the Atlantic into an angry ocean on the night of September 8, 1934. The SS Morro Castle, all 508 feet and 11,000 pounds of her, chugged hard through the high winds and pounding waves on her way to New York from Havana. The weather was mean and cruel, but nature wouldn’t deal [...]

As Triple Hurricane Threats Approach, the Eastern Seaboard Prepares

Today the North Eastern Coast of the United States prepares for Tropical Storm Hannah and Hurricane Ike, as Josephine remains out at sea for the moment. Boat, yacht and ship owners from the Florida Keys to New Jersey harbors are preparing for the storm by taking action; and you should be too.
If at all [...]