Legal Definitions - navis

Navis is a Latin term that, in legal contexts, refers to a ship or any type of vessel designed for water travel. It encompasses a broad range of watercraft, from large ocean-going vessels to smaller boats, emphasizing their function as a means of navigation on water.

• Example 1: A Large Container Ship

  Imagine a massive container ship transporting thousands of tons of goods across the Atlantic Ocean. In legal documents concerning its cargo, its crew, or any maritime incident it might be involved in, this vessel would historically be referred to as a navis. It perfectly fits the definition of a large craft designed for extensive water travel and transport.

• Example 2: A Coastal Fishing Trawler

  Consider a commercial fishing trawler operating in coastal waters, harvesting seafood. If this trawler were involved in a dispute over fishing rights, a collision with another boat, or a claim regarding its catch, legal proceedings might refer to it as a navis. Despite being smaller than an ocean liner, it is still a vessel used for navigation on water, fulfilling the term's meaning.

• Example 3: A Historical Naval Frigate

  In historical legal texts or admiralty court records from centuries past, a warship such as a sailing frigate would consistently be described as a navis. For instance, a treaty defining naval power or a court case concerning prize capture would use this term to denote the military vessel, highlighting its role as a ship engaged in navigation, whether for commerce, exploration, or warfare.