Review on “a vessel of special construction or purpose” in relation to collision prevention

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper reviews “a vessel of special construction or purpose” in the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea – Rule 1(e) and the necessity of providing a definite interpretation. Accordingly, it discusses the regulatory practices of some countries and several academic perspectives. Dissuasion is made to clarify the scope of this term, and this term does not apply to conventional and ordinary types of vessels. In addition, having a definite interpretation may not be practical for technological development. Finally, the review provides relevant recommendations to identify a vessel of special construction or purpose.