How Are Ship Mortgages Treated Under Indian Law?

A ship mortgage is a security interest over a vessel granted by the shipowner to a lender as collateral for a loan. In India, ship mortgages are governed mainly by mercantile and maritime laws, including provisions under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, and related legislation. These laws provide a framework for registration, enforcement, and protection of lenders’ rights, balancing shipowners’ operational freedom and creditors’ security interests.

Legal Framework Governing Ship Mortgages in India

Merchant Shipping Act, 1958

The Act regulates the creation and registration of ship mortgages.

Section 43 of the Act mandates that any mortgage of an Indian ship must be registered with the Registrar of Ships.

Registration protects the mortgagee’s rights against third parties.

Registration of Mortgages

Mortgages must be registered within 30 days of execution to be valid against third parties.

Failure to register makes the mortgage void against bona fide purchasers or creditors.

Priority and Enforcement

Registered mortgages have priority over unregistered claims and other encumbrances.

In case of default, mortgagees can enforce their rights through sale or foreclosure under the procedure prescribed in the Merchant Shipping Act.

Maritime Liens and Claims

Ship mortgages are distinct from maritime liens, which include unpaid wages, salvage claims, or damages due to collisions.

Maritime liens generally have priority over mortgages in Indian courts.

Other Relevant Laws

The Indian Contract Act, 1872 governs the contractual relationship between the mortgagee and mortgagor.

The Indian Registration Act, 1908 provides procedural rules for registering documents like mortgages.

Practical Implications

Shipowners seeking loans must comply with mortgage registration to secure finance.

Mortgagees gain legal protection and priority but must ensure timely registration.

In insolvency or disputes, courts balance interests based on registration status and the nature of claims.

Example

An Indian shipping company takes a loan from a bank to purchase a new vessel and grants a mortgage over the ship as security:

• The mortgage deed is executed and submitted to the Registrar of Ships within 30 days for registration.
• The bank’s mortgage becomes registered and legally enforceable against third parties.
• After some years, the company defaults on repayment. The bank files for foreclosure under the Merchant Shipping Act to sell the ship and recover dues.
• Meanwhile, unpaid crew wages are claimed as a maritime lien and may take priority over the mortgage during legal proceedings.
• The court adjudicates the claims based on the registration and lien status, ensuring fair settlement.