During times of war, port authorities issued a document called a sea letter to neutral vessels. This document certified the vessel’s nationality, specified the cargo’s nature and destination, and allowed the vessel to sail under the neutral flag of its owner. The practice of issuing sea letters was discontinued by proclamation of President James Madison in 1806. This document was also referred to as a sea brief, sea pass, or passport.
A sea letter is a document issued by port authorities during a war to a neutral vessel. It serves as proof of the vessel’s nationality, specifies the type and destination of its cargo, and grants permission for the vessel to sail under the neutral flag of its owner. The last sea letter was issued in 1806 at the Port of New York, and President James Madison later discontinued the use of sea letters through a proclamation. To illustrate, if a ship from a neutral country like Sweden wished to engage in trade with a country at war like France, it would require a sea letter to demonstrate that it carried no goods that could aid France in the war. The sea letter would also enable the ship to sail under the Swedish flag, avoiding inspection by French warships. According to our laws, ship captains must submit their registers, sea letters, and passports to the consul upon entering a port for trade. Theodore D. Woolsey, Introduction to the Study of International Law 16162 (5th ed. 1878).
A Sea Letter, also known as a Ship’s Passport, is a legal document that allows a ship to travel internationally and enter foreign ports.
A Sea Letter is issued by the government of the ship’s country of registration.
A Sea Letter typically includes information about the ship’s ownership, registration, and crew, as well as its intended route and cargo.
No, a Sea Letter is only required for ships that are traveling internationally and entering foreign ports.
A Sea Letter is typically valid for one year, but this can vary depending on the country of registration and the specific circumstances of the ship.
If a ship does not have a Sea Letter, it may be denied entry into foreign ports and could face legal penalties.
Yes, a Sea Letter can be revoked if the ship violates international laws or regulations, or if the government of the ship’s country of registration determines that the ship is no longer fit to travel.
The process for obtaining a Sea Letter varies depending on the country of registration, but typically involves submitting an application and providing documentation about the ship and its crew.
Yes, a ship can change its country of registration, but this process can be complex and may require the approval of both the old and new countries of registration.
Falsifying information on a Sea Letter is a serious offense and can result in legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. It can also put the safety of the ship and its crew at risk.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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