To understand the reach and scope of maritime law, it’s essential to explore where it applies.
We will show the geographical and jurisdictional aspects of maritime law, shedding light on where it holds sway.
Territorial Waters
Territorial waters are the waters adjacent to a country’s coastline and extend for a certain distance into the sea. The exact extent of territorial waters varies from one country to another but is often set at 12 nautical miles (about 22 kilometers).
Within these waters, a nation exercises full sovereignty and control, including the application of its own laws, including maritime law. This means that a country’s maritime law applies within its territorial waters.
Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs)
Beyond territorial waters, countries have Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), which extend up to 200 nautical miles (about 370 kilometers) from their coastlines. Within these zones, coastal states have special rights and jurisdiction over the exploration and exploitation of natural resources, such as fish and minerals.
While the coastal state’s sovereignty doesn’t extend to the EEZ, it does have the authority to enact and enforce laws related to maritime activities within this area, including maritime law.
High Seas
The high seas are areas of the ocean that are beyond any country’s territorial waters and EEZs.
These international waters are considered “global commons,” and maritime law applies universally. High seas are governed by a framework of international agreements and conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Maritime law on the high seas is primarily concerned with issues like navigation, piracy, and the protection of marine life.
Ports and Harbors
Ports and harbors are crucial hubs for maritime activities, such as shipping, trade, and commerce.
Within these areas, maritime law plays a vital role in regulating port operations, vessel safety, customs, and immigration procedures.
Each country often has its own set of regulations and laws governing its ports and harbors, which may include aspects of maritime law.
International Waters
Some water bodies, like international straits and canals, serve as critical passageways for global trade and navigation.
An example is the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. International agreements and treaties often regulate these areas, and maritime law is applicable to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vessels through these crucial waterways.
Special Jurisdictional Zones
In addition to the above-mentioned areas, there are various special jurisdictional zones that may be subject to specific maritime laws.
These zones can include marine protected areas, fisheries management areas, and regions with unique environmental concerns, like the Antarctic and the Arctic.
Specialized regulations and international cooperation often govern these zones to address the unique challenges they pose.