Maritime Services - Ship Arrests

Widely recognised for its speed and efficiency in handling ship arrests, Gibraltar provides shipowners and mortgagors with a tried and tested maritime legal system based on English law and conducted in English. Because of this Gibraltar has built up a reputation as a port of choice for ship arrests.

A key factor is Gibraltar's location within easy reach of both Atlantic and Mediterranean shipping lanes. In addition, the Port of Gibraltar usually has ample space available, both alongside and at anchor, for arrested ships to await the decision of the courts and possibly their subsequent sale.

A ship arrest may take place if the vessel has accrued an unpaid debt or if there is a dispute over ownership of the vessel or her cargo. Sometimes the vessel is surrendered voluntarily, but in some other cases the authorities will be instructed to arrest the vessel as she enters the port.

The authorities in Gibraltar have a lot of experience of handling ship arrests and have become experts in this field. Shipowners and mortgagors can be confident that matters will be disposed of with a minimum of delay and inconvenience.

The Supreme Court, in its Admiralty jurisdiction, will determine whether judgement should be entered in favour of a creditor, in which case the vessel can be sold and the proceeds used to clear the debt. Speed is essential because delays can quickly lead to additional costs as well as causing inconvenience to all parties and perhaps even hindering final settlement of the case. Ships are sold with a 'clean title' – that is, free from all encumbrances.

When an order for appraisal and sale of a ship is given by the Supreme Court, Information technology is now used to speed the process still further. Particulars of an arrested ship can be transmitted to London and can be made available on-line within days of the survey.

When an order for appraisal and sale of a ship is given by the Supreme Court, Information technology is now used to speed the process still further. Particulars of an arrested ship can be transmitted to London and can be made available on-line within days of the survey.