Activity taking place on navigable waters and certain related areas is governed by maritime law. These activities are tightly regulated, both for the safety of workers and travelers as well as the legal transportation of goods. A full understanding of these requirements can help vessel and business owners avoid legal issues that may arise from…
A frightening incident occurred on Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas cruise ship recently when a fire broke out, causing a brief loss of power. While no injuries were reported, the event undoubtedly left passengers and crew members shaken. This leaves many people wondering about what they should do—and what their rights would be—if…
When navigating the waters of the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere, understanding the rules of right-of-way at sea is a key part of ensuring a safe and smooth sailing experience. One of the key components of this maritime protocol is the responsibility of the give-way vessel when crossing paths with another vessel. When an operator violates…
On March 26, a 200-million pound cargo vessel slammed into the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing a total collapse and sending multiple cars into the Patapsco River. Six people are believed to be dead while another person is believed to be in critical condition at a local trauma center. The injuries suffered…
Check out this joint blog article by BoatLaw’s Nick Neidzwski and Adam Pollock of Pollock Cohen LLP! In it, they detail the False Claims Act, whistleblowers, and some examples of fraud against the federal government in the maritime industry. Click the link below to read more. If you are aware of any maritime fraud, reach…
Though they may seem peaceful, lakes can be just as dangerous as the open seas. Would you be surprised to learn that over 6,000 ships have sunk in the Great Lakes? While the location of many of those ships remains a mystery, researchers from NOAA, the state of Michigan, and Ocean Exploration Trust have recently…
Major outbreaks on the Diamond Princess and other cruise liners in 2020 were our first glimpse into the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s now been over a year since cruise ships have risen their anchors and those in the industry are eager to dip their toe back in. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention…
With recreational boating season well underway, the attorneys at ACW&N want everyone to stay safe while enjoying the water. A float plan is a great way for boaters to keep safe this summer. It’s always important to have a game plan when you’re operating a vessel out in the ocean, harbor, or sound. When an…
We are proud to announce that BoatLaw, LLP has been recognized as one of the top 21 maintenance and cure law firms in Seattle, Washington, by Expertise.com. Expertise.com, a trusted platform for connecting individuals with the best professionals in their area, helps more than 10 million customers each month find qualified experts in a range of…
San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesperson Monica Munoz told CNN they received reports of a smuggling vessel which overturned on May 3, 2021. The boat capsized near the Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma at approximately 10:27 a.m. James Gartland, lifeguard chief for San Diego, told reporters it appeared the boat hit the reef, broke up…
