Upcoming Events
The Shadow Fleet: legal risks and contractual complications
14/10/2026
The term “shadow fleet” refers to the growing number of maritime vessels owned and operated in a manner that bypasses international trade sanctions, embargoes and trade caps. Methods adopted include turning off tracking devices, and the frequent use of changes of flag and ship-to-ship transfers at sea.
The phenomenon has existed for decades; however, its prevalence and significance has increased since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It is now estimated that there are 1,300 ‘shadow fleet’ vessels, including one in five oil tankers worldwide. No longer a niche compliance concern, this is now a defining risk factor for the maritime industry.
An expert panel, chaired by Mrs Justice Dias DBE, will discuss the implications of these developments for ship owners, charterers and those advising them.