Marine Claims Advisory Explained: Demurrage, Cargo Damage & Insurance Disputes

In global shipping, even the most carefully managed voyages can lead to marine claims. From cargo contamination and delay to disputes over demurrage and insurance cover, shipowners, charterers, and insurers often face complex claims that require specialized knowledge. Many clients ask: what exactly does a Marine Claims Advisory service cover? The answer is straightforward — it provides independent guidance and practical support in preparing, documenting, and negotiating claims, without stepping into litigation or arbitration.

A common concern for charterers and shipowners is: what documents do I need before approaching a marine claims advisor? The essentials include the charter party agreement, fixture recap, bills of lading, statement of facts, notices of readiness, survey reports, emails, and insurance policy wordings. These documents form the foundation for evaluating whether a claim is valid and how it can be presented effectively to the other side or an insurer. Having these in order not only saves time but also strengthens your negotiating position.

Another frequent question is: why do demurrage, laytime, and off-hire disputes keep arising? These issues are among the most common in shipping. Misinterpretation of charter party clauses, errors in laytime calculations, or unclear notices often lead to costly disputes. A marine claims advisory service helps clients avoid pitfalls by clarifying contract terms, reviewing calculations, and advising on settlement strategies. For shipowners, this can mean recovering time-related losses quickly; for charterers, it may prevent paying inflated or unjustified demurrage bills.

Insurance disputes are another area where clients seek help, particularly in the UAE and India. One widely asked question is: what happens if my insurer rejects a marine claim? Many P&I or H&M claims are denied due to technicalities — lack of proper documentation, late notifications, or disputes over policy interpretation. Here, an experienced advisor can review the case, identify weaknesses, and guide you on resubmission or negotiation with the insurer. The goal is not to litigate but to give you the best chance of settlement without escalating costs.

Ultimately, Marine Claims Advisory is about clarity, strategy, and prevention. By understanding your rights under the charter party or insurance contract, you can minimize exposure and handle claims more effectively. For shipowners, charterers, and insurers operating in the UAE, London, Singapore, and India, advisory support offers peace of mind that your claims are being managed professionally and with your commercial interests in focus.

👉 If you are currently facing a marine claim or simply want to prepare better for future voyages, booking an introductory advisory session is the easiest way to get practical guidance tailored to your case.