The aim of this course is to provide students with a general understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of maritime law and the main types of contracts used in maritime practice. The course also aims to familiarize students with the relevant international conventions and to enable them to identify and analyse basic legal issues arising from maritime contracts.

This course provides an introduction to the general principles of maritime law and the legal framework governing maritime commerce. It covers the fundamental concepts and institutions of maritime law, including the ship, shipowner and master, as well as the main types of maritime contracts, with particular emphasis on contracts of carriage of goods by sea and charterparties. Relevant international conventions and rules will also be examined.

Lectures, class discussions, case studies and analysis of relevant legal materials, including international conventions and standard maritime contracts.

Relevant textbooks and academic articles on maritime law; international conventions and other legal instruments; standard form maritime contracts; and supplementary materials provided by the lecturer.