Container ship fires and ports of refuge for the big ship era
By Tom Morgan, Partner at law firm HFW
The increasing frequency and severity of fires aboard container ships is a pressing concern for the maritime industry. Recent incidents have highlighted the dangers these fires pose, not only to vessels and their crews, but also to cargo and the surrounding environment. In many cases, the consequences have been catastrophic, with some ships lost entirely and others facing substantial legal and financial repercussions.
In this article, Tom explores the growing challenge of securing a port of refuge for container ships affected by onboard fires, highlighting the legal, operational and environmental complexities that arise in managing these incidents.
Once salvage arrangements are in place and firefighting efforts have begun, a vital step will be identifying and securing a port of refuge (POR). Throughout maritime history, vessels have needed to take fast action to protect lives, prevent environmental damage, and limit further losses. However, the scale and complexity of modern container ships, often carrying hazardous materials and involving multiple stakeholders, makes this process increasingly challenging.
Early decision-making is crucial – this will involve evaluating the immediate risks, the ship’s current position, its destination, nearby PORs and whether those ports are
accessible and willing to accept the vessel. In cases where a Lloyd’s Open Form (LOF) salvage contract is used, the salvage master will assume command of the operation. The shipowner formally requests entry, while insurers, charterers, and alliance partners all have vested interests.
Regulatory bodies such as Flag and Class must also be consulted. Ideally, all parties will collaborate, holding daily briefings and sharing key documents including cargo and dangerous goods manifests, to ensure informed and safe decision-making. LOF clauses reinforce the shared responsibility of all property owners to support salvors in securing a place of safety.
The process of securing permission to enter a POR varies widely depending on the port and local authorities. Coastal States that are signatories to IMO Resolution A.1184(33) are encouraged to follow its guidelines, which were outlined in December 2023. These reiterate the need to stabilise the casualty, reducing onboard hazards, and repairing any damage as the best way to prevent further harm.
92 | ISSUE 115 | MAR 2026 | THE REPORT
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