Time charterer: Shipmaster's legal position

The master should follow the time charterer's instruction so far they relate to the commercial activities of the ship, eg voyage orders, issuing bills of lading, sending messages etc.

There will usually be a clause in charter party stating that: The charter's are to give master the necessary sailing instructions. The master is to be under the order of the charterer as regard to employment agency or other arrangements. The master is to prosecute the voyage with utmost despatch. The master is to render customary assistance to charterer with the crew. The master is to keep proper logs accessible to the charterers and the agents. If the charterer is dissatisfied with the conduct of the master or the other officers, the owner will investigate the matter and if necessary and practicable, change the appointments.