Legal Definitions - marine service

Marine service refers to any work, labor, or activity performed on or in direct connection with a vessel operating on navigable waters. This encompasses a wide range of tasks essential for the operation, navigation, maintenance, repair, and support of ships, boats, and other watercraft, whether for commercial, recreational, or governmental purposes.

Here are some examples illustrating marine service:

• Example 1: A crew member working aboard a ferry that transports passengers and vehicles across a bay. Their duties include operating the vessel, ensuring passenger safety, and performing routine maintenance tasks while the ferry is in service.

  Explanation: The crew member's work is performed directly on a vessel (the ferry) while it is operating on navigable waters (the bay), making it a clear instance of marine service.

• Example 2: A specialized technician performing an underwater inspection and repair of a cruise ship's hull while it is docked in port, preparing for its next voyage.

  Explanation: Even though the ship is docked, the technician's work is performed *in direct connection with* the vessel and is crucial for its seaworthiness and continued operation on navigable waters, thus qualifying as marine service.

• Example 3: An individual employed by a salvage company who assists in refloating a grounded cargo ship in a shipping channel, ensuring the channel remains clear for other maritime traffic.

  Explanation: The salvage operation is a service directly related to a vessel (the grounded cargo ship) and its ability to operate on navigable waters, as well as maintaining the navigability of the channel. This direct support for maritime operations constitutes marine service.