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Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Plimsoll line The Plimsoll line on the hull of a ship. (more) This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen . AI-generated answers from Britannica articles. AI makes mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles. Adjunct Professor of Law, New York University. Attorney, Healy & Baillie, New York City. Honorary Vice President, International Maritime Committee. Editor, Journal of Maritime Law and Commerce,... Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Internationally, maritime law addresses topics such as collision regulations , ship safety, and marine pollution. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) , a United Nations body, creates and modifies international conventions regarding maritime law. Marine insurance is another key aspect, covering hull insurance, cargo, and liabilities. It also deals with dangerous goods , establishing rules for the shipment of hazardous materials to ensure the safety of people, transport, and other goods. Additionally, maritime law addresses legal issues on the high seas , including jurisdiction over crimes and international crimes like piracy. International Conventions The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), signed in 1982, is a comprehensive attempt to codify international law regarding territorial waters, sea lanes, and ocean resources. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms Countries first try to settle disputes through negotiation or other means. If these efforts fail, the dispute may be referred to the UN International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, arbitration, or the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for compulsory settlement. Scope of Authority With respect to international crimes, any country or international organization can theoretically claim authority over the matter using the concept of universal jurisdiction. What are territorial waters, and how are they governed under maritime law? Territorial waters are the sea areas adjacent to a state's coast, over which the state has territorial jurisdiction under international law. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea allows countries to extend territorial waters up to 12 nautical miles from their coast. Within these waters, states have sovereignty, but foreign vessels have the right of innocent passage, provided it is not prejudicial to the coastal state. The Law of the Sea treaty defines rights and duties, including navigation, resource management, and marine environment protection. How do international agreements, like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), shape maritime law around the world? International agreements, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) , significantly shape maritime law by establishing a framework for public order at sea. UNCLOS, also known as the "constitution for the oceans," codifies international laws regarding territorial waters , sea lanes, and ocean resources. Under UNCLOS, maritime countries have control over their territorial waters up to 12 miles from the shoreline and can claim an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending 200 nautical miles from their shores, granting them rights to exploit marine resources. The International Seabed Authority (ISA) manages mineral resources beyond national jurisdictions, ensuring benefits are shared globally. Rome did not become a maritime power until the Punic wars of the 3rd century bc. From the fact that the Romans were allies of the Rhodians and from the references in the Digest , it is logical to assume that Roman maritime law borrowed heavily from that of Rhodes. Acknowledging Rhodes as the birthplac