Answer
The LLMC establishes the right of shipowners, charterers, managers, operators, and salvors to limit their financial liability for specific maritime claims up to a capped amount, regardless of the actual damage value. This cap is calculated based on the ship's gross tonnage (GT).
Claims Subject to Limitation:
Loss of life or personal injury on board or directly connected with ship/salvage operations.
Loss of or damage to property (other vessels, port installations, infrastructure, cargo).
Loss resulting from delay in carriage of cargo, passengers, or luggage.
Non-contractual claims arising directly from ship operations.
- shipowner;
- charterer within the Convention definition;
- manager;
- operator;
- salvor;
Key Features & Split Limits
The limits are structured into two distinct funds under a tiered tonnage scale:
Claims for Loss of Life or Personal Injury: Receives a significantly higher liability cap.
Property Claims: Covers damage to harbor works, basins, waterways, navigational aids, and other cargo.
| Vessel Tonnage (GT) | Loss of Life & Personal Injury Claims | Other Claims (Property, Damage, etc.) |
| Up to 2,000 GT (Base Limit) | 3.02 million SDR | 1.51 million SDR |
| 2,001 to 30,000 GT | + 1,208 SDR per GT | + 604 SDR per GT |
| 30,001 to 70,000 GT | + 906 SDR per GT | + 453 SDR per GT |
| Over 70,000 GT | + 604 SDR per GT | + 302 SDR per GT |
Breaking the Limitation (Conduct Barring Limitation)
A person cannot limit liability if it is proven that the marine casualty resulted from their personal act or omission, committed with:
The intent to cause such loss, or
Recklessly and with knowledge that such loss would probably occur.