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Speed Claims in Time Charters - Rights, Responsibilities, and Resolutions

Updated: Oct 27

In the realm of maritime commerce, time is money, and speed is the currency that keeps the industry afloat.

The above statement underscores the critical role that speed claims play in the time charter industry. Speed and performance disputes between ship owners and charterers are a common occurrence, often leading to deductions from hire payments and complex legal battles.


Ship's Main Engine

 The intricacies of speed claims encompass various aspects of vessel performance, including engine efficiency, fuel consumption, marine hull growth, and weather conditions. These factors, along with the contractual obligations outlined in charter parties, form the basis of speed performance disputes that can significantly impact the financial outcomes for both parties involved.


Navigating the choppy waters of speed claims requires a deep understanding of maritime law, contractual obligations, and the technical nuances of ship performance. This article aims to shed light on the rights and responsibilities of ship owners and charterers in relation to speed claims, while exploring the various avenues for dispute resolution, including arbitration and the appointment of independent experts.


Key Takeaways:

  • Speed and performance disputes are prevalent in the time charter industry, often resulting in hire payment deductions.

  • Factors such as engine performance, fuel consumption, hull growth, and weather conditions impact ship performance and speed claims.

  • Charter parties typically include contractual undertakings from the owner regarding the ship's speed, fuel consumption, and performance under specific conditions.

  • Clauses like "Without guarantee," "Good Weather," and "About" can limit the scope of speed and performance warranties.

  • Appointing independent third-party experts can help resolve technical calculations in speed claims, avoiding costly arbitration proceedings.


Understanding Speed Claims in Time Charters

Speed claims in time charters are pivotal in the maritime sector, affecting financial commitments and performance standards between ship owners and charterers. These claims emerge when a vessel fails to meet the agreed speed, triggering disputes and necessitating resolution through maritime arbitration or legal channels.


Definition of Speed Claims

Speed claims in time charters allow charterers to deduct from hire any extra time and bunkers due to vessel underperformance. It's crucial to differentiate speed claims from off-hire scenarios, as calculation methods vary. A vessel is considered off-hire only if the speed reduction is due to an event listed in the charter party's "off-hire" clause.


Contractual obligations  and performance warranties are central to speed claims. Charter party clauses detailing speed and performance expectations govern the vessel's performance during the charter. Non-compliance can lead to off-hire disputes, claims for damages, and even contract termination.


In time charters, breaching a charter party condition, like the delivery date, can justify contract cancellation by the charterer.

Importance of Speed Claims in the Maritime Industry

Speed and performance disputes are frequent between owners and charterers under time charters. These disputes often involve deductions from hire, either already made or anticipated. Speed claims are vital for both parties:

  • For ship owners, they affect their ability to receive full hire under the charter.

  • For charterers, they ensure cost-effectiveness by accounting for vessel underperformance.


A scene depicting maritime arbitration, focusing on a nautical chart and navigational instruments, such as a compass and protractor, alongside a calculator and performance graphs

Speed claims' significance extends beyond immediate financial impacts. They enforce contractual obligations and enhance maritime operation efficiency. By resolving speed claims through maritime arbitration, the industry ensures vessels meet expectations, safeguarding the interests of both parties.


Consequence

Description

Off-hire

The vessel may be considered off-hire if the speed reduction is caused by an event listed in the charter party's "off-hire" clause.

Damages

Charterers may claim damages for underperformance, calculated as the difference in the market rate of hire between a ship meeting the specifications and the underperforming vessel.

Contract Termination

In severe cases, a breach of speed warranties may lead to the termination of the charter party, depending on the seriousness of the breach and the specific terms of the contract.


The maritime charter party clauses, like those in the NYPE time charter form, reflect the industry's ongoing efforts to address speed claims and clarify performance expectations. As the shipping industry prioritizes efficiency and environmental compliance, the relevance of speed claims and their resolution through maritime arbitration and legal means will escalate.


Contractual Obligations and Performance Warranties

In the maritime sector, charter party performance is a pivotal aspect, often sparking disputes between ship owners and charterers. Time charters mandate ships to operate within specific parameters. Owners commit to the vessel's speed and fuel consumption under certain conditions.


Charter Party Clauses Related to Speed and Performance

Charter parties detail the ship's performance, stating it can steam at about… knots, fully laden, under good weather. These clauses are critical in assessing the vessel's expected performance. They serve as the foundation for speed performance guarantees in disputes.


Continuing Warranties Throughout the Charter Period

Performance warranties extend beyond the ship's initial service date; they are ongoing commitments by the owner. The master must ensure the vessel meets the warranted performance levels. Failure to do so can result in maritime legal disputes and costly arbitration cases.


Impact of "Without Guarantee" and "About" Clauses

The scope of performance warranties can be limited by specific caveats in the charter party. The inclusion of "without guarantee" may reduce the owner's obligation to a mere estimate. The use of "about" or "all details about" in the ship's description introduces a margin of error in speed and fuel consumption.


Clause

Effect on Performance Warranty

"Without Guarantee"

Dilutes owner's obligation to a good faith estimate

"About"

Allows 0.5 knots margin in speed and 5% in fuel consumption


The interpretation of these clauses significantly influences the outcome of speed claims and arbitration cases. London Arbitrators generally permit a 0.5 knots margin in speed and a 5% margin in fuel consumption when "about" is used in the ship's description.


In conclusion, a deep understanding of contractual obligations and performance warranties in time charters is essential for ship owners and charterers. By carefully drafting and interpreting charter party clauses related to speed and performance, parties can reduce the risk of maritime legal disputes. This ensures a smoother resolution process in the event of a claim.


Factors Affecting Vessel Performance

Several elements can significantly influence a vessel's performance during a voyage, potentially leading to maritime contract disputes and issues with speed claim resolution. These include weather conditions, currents, engine performance, fuel consumption, and hull fouling. Each of these factors can impact a ship's ability to meet its warranted speed and consumption claims.


Weather Conditions and Good Weather Clauses

Weather conditions are pivotal in determining a vessel's performance. Charter parties often include a "good weather" clause, outlining acceptable weather conditions for the ship to maintain its warranted speed and consumption. This clause typically specifies that weather should not exceed Beaufort Force 4 and Douglas Sea Scale 3. If the vessel encounters weather beyond these limits, it may be exempted from meeting its warranted performance.


Currents and Their Impact on Speed Claims

The debate surrounding the impact of currents on vessel performance is significant in speed claim resolution cases. Some arbitrators consider currents when calculating a ship's speed and performance, while others disregard them. The consensus leans towards factoring in currents only when their effect on a voyage is evident and substantial.


Engine Performance, Fuel Consumption, and Hull Fouling

A vessel's engine performance and fuel consumption are critical in determining its speed and efficiency. Poor engine maintenance or malfunctions can lead to reduced speed and increased bunker consumption claims. Hull fouling, caused by marine growth on the ship's hull, also impacts performance by increasing drag and reducing speed.


Factor

Impact on Vessel Performance

Weather Conditions

Adverse weather can reduce speed and increase fuel consumption

Currents

Favorable currents can increase speed, while unfavorable currents can reduce it

Engine Performance

Poor engine maintenance or malfunctions can lead to reduced speed and efficiency

Fuel Consumption

Increased fuel consumption can indicate engine issues or hull fouling

Hull Fouling

Accumulation of marine growth on the hull increases drag and reduces speed


Understanding these factors and their potential impact on vessel performance is crucial. It helps parties involved in maritime contracts navigate speed claim disputes more effectively, aiming for resolutions that benefit all parties.


Assessing Vessel Performance for Speed Claims

In the realm of speed claims in maritime charters, the charter party emerges as a pivotal document. It delineates the methodologies and preferred sources for evaluating the ship's speed and performance against warranties. This document is instrumental in shaping the evaluation approach and criteria.


Before engaging in the specifics of maritime time charter disputes concerning speed, a comprehensive "good weather" analysis is imperative. The vessel's speed warranty is contingent upon "good weather" conditions. Thus, the ship's capability must be assessed based on its average speed during good weather periods. The average daily fuel consumption should also be calculated over these periods, excluding any bad weather.


The charter party often prescribes the standards for measuring performance, such as Beaufort force 4 and Douglas sea-state 3. A recent arbitration award granted a 0.25 knots allowance for current benefits on speed. The minimum speed requirement for the ballast leg was set at 13.0 knots.


In speed performance disputes, several factors are considered. These include the master's role in route selection and adherence to instructions, as seen in the Hill Harmony case. The master's sea protest, detailing encounters with severe stormy weather, was accepted by the tribunal. It acknowledged bad weather on at least 3 days.


It is noteworthy that in 2014, three arbitration decisions in London addressed vessel performance claims. LMLN 1/14 concerned overconsumption allegations in a short charter. LMLN 12/14 explored the nature of performance warranties and breach assessment. LMLN 18/14 highlighted the impact of hull fouling on performance, underscoring the need for warranty review. For a detailed understanding of speed claims in maritime charters, refer to industry guidebooks and publications that analyze LMAA awards, court cases, and statutes.


Owners are entitled to "two times about" in respect of speed and consumption claims in the discussed arbitration award.

When evaluating vessel performance for speed claims, it is essential to consider various data sources and evidence. Weather routing data may take precedence over ship's logs in certain instances. Charterers may challenge the ship's reports with evidence from independent sources, such as the Japanese Meteorological Association.


The resolution of speed claims in maritime charters hinges on a detailed examination of charter party terms, vessel performance data, and external factors like weather and hull fouling. By meticulously analyzing these elements and referring to relevant industry guidelines and arbitration decisions, stakeholders can effectively manage maritime time charter disputes and achieve equitable settlements in speed performance disputes.


Evidence and Data Sources for Speed Claim Calculations

In evaluating a ship's performance against speed performance guarantees, log books and weather routing reports are the primary sources. The value of these documents hinges on the charter party's specific provisions.


Traditionally, the master's evidence is preferred for assessing performance in favorable weather. This preference stems from the master's continuous presence on the bridge and direct observation of weather conditions. In contrast, independent weather bureaus rely on satellite imagery, which may not be as frequent.


Log Books and Their Importance

Log books are crucial in maritime legal disputes over speed claims. They detail the ship's performance, weather, and other voyage factors. These records are heavily weighted in arbitration and court proceedings.


Weather Routing Company Data

Charterers often use weather routing companies to evaluate a ship's performance. These companies consider the entire voyage, including both favorable and adverse weather. They apply weather and current factors to estimate the impact on speed and performance.


Data Source

Methodology

Evidential Value

Log Books

Continuous observations by the master

High, favored by mariners and owners

Weather Routing Companies

Assessment of the entire voyage, applying weather and current factors

Varies, depends on charter party provisions

Independent Weather Bureaus

Daily or twice-daily satellite imagery

Limited, as per English law


Independent Weather Bureaus and Local Weather Stations

Data from independent weather bureaus and local stations may also be considered. Despite technological advancements, such data does not conclusively prove performance under English law. The master's log and weather routing in charters remain the primary evidence in disputes.


Notwithstanding technological advances, the position remains that independent data doesn't give conclusive evidence of performance, at least as a matter of English law.

The outcome of speed claims and performance deductions will depend on the charter party's provisions and the evidence from log books and weather routing reports.


Calculating Speed and Performance Deductions

Assessing a vessel's underperformance is critical in resolving charter party speed warranties and maritime arbitration speed claims. If a ship fails to meet contracted speed and consumption standards, the charterer may seek compensation for losses incurred. This entails a detailed analysis of the vessel's performance during the charter period, focusing on good weather periods and excluding adverse weather conditions.


Good Weather Analysis and Exclusion of Bad Weather Periods

In evaluating a vessel's performance for bunker consumption claims, courts and tribunals focus on the ship's speed and fuel consumption during "good weather days." These are periods unaffected by adverse weather conditions. By isolating these days, arbitrators can assess if the ship met the speed and consumption warranties outlined in the charter party agreement.


Accurate identification of good weather days is essential. Deck logs, rather than log extracts or abstracts, provide a comprehensive view of the ship's performance. They typically record the vessel's position every two hours, weather conditions every four hours, distance made good, and average speed for the preceding day and the voyage.

  • Vessel's position at least every two hours

  • Weather conditions at least every four hours

  • Distance made good

  • Average speed for the preceding day and the voyage so far (recorded at noon and upon completion of the voyage)


Determining the Extent of Underperformance

If the ship's average speed over good weather periods falls short of the charter party agreement's warranty, quantifying the underperformance is necessary. This involves comparing actual speed and fuel consumption to the warranted figures.


Consider the following example:

Performance Metric

Actual

Warranted

Speed (knots)

13.59

13.3

Daily Fuel Consumption (mts)

29.578

30.5


In this scenario, the vessel exceeded the speed warranty by achieving 13.59 knots. The average daily consumption of 29.578 mts was less than the warranty of 30.5 mts. As a result, the owners successfully defended against the charterer's claims, with the arbitration tribunal ruling in their favor.


Conversely, if the vessel underperformed, the charterer's weather routing company might estimate a loss of 34.21 hours and an overconsumption of 91.12 mts of IFO. Other weather reporting companies could provide different figures. In such cases, the arbitration tribunal must carefully evaluate the evidence and calculations to determine the appropriate compensation for underperformance.


Arbitration and Legal Proceedings for Speed Claim Resolution

Disputes over speed claims in maritime charters often lead to arbitration proceedings. Experts in maritime law scrutinize technical data and contractual obligations. This process determines breaches and appropriate remedies. The London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) is a leading entity, publishing around 500 arbitration awards yearly and receiving over 4,000 appointments annually.


Role of Arbitrators in Speed Claim Disputes

Arbitrators are crucial in resolving speed claim disputes. They have the expertise to interpret complex charter party terms and evaluate evidence. In a recent case, a tribunal under the NYPE 46 form ruled on a speed claim dispute. It highlighted the importance of understanding contractual terms to avoid disputes and liabilities.


The tribunal found that both speed and consumption warranties were subject to a 5% tolerance. This demonstrates the nuanced approach required in these cases.


London-based maritime arbitrators apply English commercial and maritime law. This is favored by shipowners and charterers in resolving disputes. Shipping disagreements are often conducted in London under English law. Appeals under the English Arbitration Act (1950) are restricted. Commercial Court judges have extensive experience in commercial and maritime arbitration.


Conflicting Decisions and Interpretation of Charter Party Terms

Despite arbitrators' expertise, conflicting decisions and interpretations of charter party terms occur. For instance, there is no consensus on whether the owner can benefit twice from the "about" clause. Some argue that "average" cannot be substituted for "about," and no margin of 0.5 knots and 5% bunker consumption will be allowed.


Another contentious issue is whether the performance warranty is given only upon delivery or throughout the charter. Unless the charter specifies that it is "continuing," the warranty may not apply for the entire charter period. The owners' duty to maintain the ship in an efficient state is relevant here.


In one case, charterers commissioned two reports from weather reporting companies. These reports concluded 34.21 hours or 34.2658 hours had been lost, with 91.12 mts or 95.847 mts of IFO overconsumed, respectively. The vessel logs showed the vessel's speed at 13.59 knots, exceeding the warranty of 13.3 knots.


Charterers' Reports

Hours Lost

IFO Overconsumed

Weather Reporting Company 1

34.21

91.12 mts

Weather Reporting Company 2

34.2658

95.847 mts


The first weather reporting company found the average daily consumption to be 29.578 mts in good weather, below the daily warranty. The charterers attempted to account for the effect of favorable currents on vessel speed. This led to disputes on the breach of speed warranty. Ultimately, the owners successfully defended the claims by arguing that the vessel was not in breach of speed and consumption warranties.


Precision and clarity are essential for arbitration agreements to be binding and protected under the United Kingdom's Arbitration Acts (1950-1979). Arbitration clauses should specify time limits for appointing arbitrators, with precedence given to specific time limits based on court rulings. Over time, arbitrators have evolved from being chosen for commercial backgrounds to having more legal qualifications. This reflects the increasing complexity of maritime disputes and the need for expert interpretation of contractual obligations.


Best Practices for Avoiding and Managing Speed Claims

In the maritime sector, speed claims can result in substantial financial losses and prolonged disputes over off-hire time. To mitigate these risks and manage claims effectively, adopting best practices is crucial. These include maintaining accurate records, regular vessel maintenance, and clear communication among parties. Such practices foster a more efficient and harmonious relationship between shipowners and charterers, navigating the complexities of maritime charter party clauses.


Accurate Record-Keeping and Log Book Maintenance

Maintaining accurate and detailed records is vital in managing speed claims. This entails diligent log book maintenance, ensuring all relevant information, such as weather conditions, vessel performance, and fuel consumption, is recorded precisely and consistently. Charterers may dispute the reliability of ship logs, and any evidence of inaccuracies can undermine the entire record, even if unrelated to the claim.


To counter such challenges, cross-referencing log entries with other data sources is recommended. This includes ballast logs, stability computer records, and AIS data. For vessels acting as Voluntary Observing Ships, detailed weather situation reports are available for comparison with deck log books. Ensuring the integrity and consistency of records strengthens a shipowner's position in speed claim disputes.


Regular Vessel Maintenance and Performance Monitoring

Proactive vessel maintenance and continuous performance monitoring are key to preventing speed claims. Shipowners should implement a comprehensive maintenance schedule, ensuring the vessel operates efficiently throughout the charter period. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs help identify and rectify performance issues before they become major claims.


Utilizing advanced weather routing systems and performance monitoring tools provides valuable insights into vessel performance. This enables shipowners to make informed decisions, optimizing routes for fuel efficiency and speed. By leveraging these technologies and maintaining a proactive maintenance approach, shipowners can reduce the risk of underperformance and subsequent speed claims.


Clear and Precise Charter Party Clauses

The clarity and precision of charter party clauses are foundational to a successful charter. To avoid ambiguity and disputes, it is essential to define performance warranties, speed, and consumption tolerances clearly within the charter. For instance, specifying the vessel's speed capability with an "about" tolerance, such as "about 13.00 knots on about 28.50 mt where 'about' means +/-0.5 Knots and +/-5% consumption, both tolerances to apply".


Clear definitions and tolerances minimize the risk of misinterpretation, ensuring a common understanding of the vessel's expected performance. It is also crucial to address the impact of weather conditions, good weather clauses, and other factors affecting speed and performance. Crafting clear and comprehensive charter party clauses establishes a solid foundation for a successful and dispute-free charter.


Best Practice

Key Elements

Benefits

Accurate Record-Keeping

  • Diligent log book maintenance

  • Cross-referencing with other data sources

  • Ensuring integrity and consistency of records

Strengthens position in speed claim disputes

Regular Vessel Maintenance

  • Robust maintenance schedule

  • Regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs

  • Proactive approach to performance optimization

Minimizes risk of underperformance and speed claims

Clear Charter Party Clauses

  • Clearly defined performance warranties

  • Explicit speed and consumption tolerances

  • Comprehensive coverage of relevant factors

Establishes solid foundation for dispute-free charter


By implementing these best practices, shipowners and charterers can navigate maritime legal disputes more effectively. This minimizes off-hire time disputes and fosters a collaborative and efficient working relationship. As the maritime industry evolves, adopting these proactive measures will be essential for success in a competitive and regulated landscape.


Alternatives to Arbitration for Speed Claim Resolution

Arbitration, a prevalent method for resolving maritime contract disputes, including speed performance guarantees, is often lengthy and costly. Parties in charter party performance disputes may find value in alternative dispute resolution methods. These alternatives can help avoid the expenses and complexities of maritime arbitration cases.


Appointing Independent Third-Party Experts

Appointing an independent third-party expert for technical calculations on speed and performance claims is a viable alternative to arbitration. This method is beneficial when there's ambiguity or disagreement over assessing a ship's performance. An impartial professional's expertise can lead to a quicker, more cost-effective resolution than arbitration.


Independent experts offer crucial insights by:

  • Conducting good weather analysis and excluding bad weather periods

  • Analyzing log books, weather routing company data, and other relevant sources

  • Determining the extent of underperformance based on contractual obligations

An independent expert is recommended for technical calculations in speed and performance claims to prevent long and costly arbitrations.

Reaching Compromises to Avoid Costly Arbitration

Seeking compromises and negotiating settlements is another alternative to arbitration. By focusing on areas of agreement and resolving specific points of contention, owners and charterers can often find mutually acceptable solutions. This approach avoids the need for formal arbitration proceedings.


When aiming for a compromise, parties should:

  1. Clearly communicate their positions and concerns

  2. Be open to finding middle ground on technical issues

  3. Consider the long-term benefits of maintaining a positive business relationship


Remember, a compromise is generally preferable to a lengthy arbitration. This is due to the complexity and potential costs of speed and performance claims.


Arbitration

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Lengthy process

Quicker resolution

Expensive

More cost-effective

Formal proceedings

Flexible and collaborative


Exploring alternatives to arbitration, such as appointing independent experts and reaching compromises, can help parties resolve speed claims efficiently and economically. This approach preserves business relationships while avoiding the costs and complexities of arbitration.


Oil Tanker in the horizon

Conclusion

Speed claims in time charters are complex, requiring a deep understanding of contractual obligations, vessel performance, and industry norms. By keeping accurate records, monitoring vessel performance, and drafting clear charter party speed warranties, parties can reduce the likelihood of disputes. If disputes do occur, alternative resolution methods like independent experts or compromises can avoid the expense and delay of maritime arbitration.


Proactively addressing speed claim resolution is crucial for maintaining good relations between charterers and ship owners. It ensures vessels operate efficiently within the maritime sector. Time charters offer flexibility, cost savings, revenue generation, and risk reduction, with charter durations ranging from a few months to several years.


In a notable case, a claim for damages of about $1.2 million was upheld by the Court. The vessel suffered a rapid water ingress in the Suez Canal, failing to start the approach voyage on time. This underscores the significance of clear contractual terms and the financial stakes of speed claims in shipping.


FAQ

What are speed claims in time charters?

Speed claims in time charters refer to disputes over a vessel's failure to meet the speed and performance standards outlined in the charter agreement. These claims enable charterers to deduct from the hire any additional time and fuel spent due to the vessel's underperformance.


How do speed claims impact the maritime industry?

The maritime industry is significantly impacted by speed claims, as they directly influence the financial aspects of time charter agreements. These disputes can affect the profitability and operational efficiency of both charterers and ship owners. Often, they lead to arbitration proceedings, potentially straining business relationships.


What are the common contractual obligations related to speed and performance in time charters?

Time charters typically include contractual obligations from the owner regarding the vessel's capability to maintain a certain speed and fuel consumption rate. These warranties are detailed in the charter party and may include caveats such as "without guarantee" or "about."


How do weather conditions affect vessel performance and speed claims?

Weather conditions are critical in determining vessel performance and speed claims. Charter parties often include a 'good weather' clause, specifying the weather conditions under which the ship's performance is guaranteed. This usually refers to conditions not exceeding Beaufort Force 4 and Douglas Sea Scale 3.


What evidence is used to assess vessel performance in speed claim disputes?

Log books and weather routing reports are the primary sources of information for assessing vessel performance in speed claim disputes. The evidential value of these documents varies based on the charter party's specific provisions. Deck logs are generally considered more reliable than log extracts or abstracts.


How are speed and performance deductions calculated in speed claims?

Calculating speed and performance deductions involves a 'good weather' analysis. The ship's average speed during the good weather period is compared to the warranty in the charter party, considering any allowances. If the ship's speed is below the warranty, the underperformance is determined, and deductions are calculated.


What role do arbitrators play in resolving speed claim disputes?

Arbitrators play a crucial role in resolving speed claim disputes by analyzing technical data and contractual obligations. They interpret charter party terms, assess evidence reliability, and make decisions based on each case's specific circumstances.


How can parties avoid and manage speed claim disputes?

To avoid and manage speed claim disputes, parties should maintain accurate records, monitor vessel performance regularly, and draft clear charter party clauses. When disputes occur, seeking alternative resolution methods, such as independent experts or compromises, can help avoid costly arbitration proceedings.


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