Ship Managers in California

Division 4, Chapter 2.5 of the California Harbors and Navigation Code deals with a ship’s managers. Section 830 states that the general agent for the owners, in respect to the care of a ship and freight, is called the manager. If he or she is a part owner, they are also called the managing owner.

Section 831 specifies that it is the duty of the manager of a vessel to provide for its complete seaworthiness; to take care of it in port; and to see that it is provided with necessary papers, with a proper master, mate, and crew, and supplies of provisions and stores.

Section 832 provides that a managing owner is presumed to be without right to compensation for his own services.

Section 833 allows a manager to make contracts requisite for the performance of his duties. He may enter into charter parties, make contracts for carriage, settle for freightage, and adjust averages.

Section 834 prohibits, without special authority, a manager to borrow money or give up the lien for freightage, or purchase a cargo, or bind the owners of the vessel to an insurance.