Voyage Charter
A voyage charter is a shipping contract in which a shipowner agrees to transport a specific cargo on a defined voyage in return for an agreed freight payment. The contract covers a single trip between designated ports, rather than a long-term or multiple-voyage arrangement. It clearly outlines the cargo type, loading and discharge ports, freight rate, and responsibilities of each party.
Under a voyage charter, the shipowner provides the vessel, crew, fuel, and operating costs for the journey. The charterer pays freight based on the agreed terms and is responsible for providing the cargo. Time spent loading and unloading is usually governed by laytime provisions, with demurrage or despatch applying if operations exceed or fall below agreed limits. These terms help balance operational risks between both parties.
Voyage charters are commonly used in bulk shipping, such as for commodities like coal, grain, or minerals. They offer flexibility for charterers who need transport for a one-off shipment or irregular cargo volumes. The contract allows both sides to manage costs and risks for a specific movement without long-term commitments.
Overall, a voyage charter provides a clear and structured agreement for single-voyage cargo transport. It defines responsibilities, controls costs, and supports the efficient movement of large cargoes. For many bulk trades, it remains a practical and widely used chartering arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Voyage Charter
Clear answers to the most common questions people have when learning about Voyage Charter.
It includes cargo details, loading and discharge ports, freight rate, laytime terms, and responsibilities of the shipowner and charterer.
The shipowner covers vessel operating costs such as crew, fuel, and maintenance, while the charterer pays the agreed freight.
It is typically used for one-off or bulk shipments where cargo needs to be moved on a specific voyage without long-term commitments.