We seek to put on the table and within everyone's reach what are the issues that are discussed both judicially and outside the judicial sphere; and thus give tools to all those who work in the sector to prevent or reduce problems that can be found in the business, know in advance the legal consequences that an accident or non-compliance can cause and give them quality information on current issues of the maritime business.

Liability in the towage contract
In this episode of Uruguay Marítimo, we share the recording of Dr. Florencia Sciarra’s presentation at the First WISTA Uruguay Seminar (August 20, 2025). The topic focuses on liability in towage contracts, addressing: The particular features and legal nature of the contract. The distinction between towage for transport and towage for maneuvering. The debate between obligations of means and obligations of result. Contractual liability and liability towards third parties.
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Liability of port operators
In this episode we take a closer look at a key player in the port: the port operator. What is their real responsibility when it comes to cargo? Some argue that the operator is part of the maritime transport contract and therefore jointly liable with the carrier. Others see their role as different: safeguarding and delivering the goods within the port, under a separate and independent liability regime. In this chapter, we explore both legal perspectives, their practical foundations, and what they mean in cases of cargo damage or shortage.
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OSRO: the private response to marine oil spills
What are OSROs and why are they mandatory in Uruguay? In this episode, we explain the key role of these private organizations in preventing and responding to oil spills, under Maritime Order No. 157. A clear look at how the maritime sector manages environmental risk.
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STS in inland waters
In this episode, we explore how Uruguay expanded its regulatory framework to cover Ship-to-Ship (STS) operations in inland waters. Maritime Disposition No. 173, issued in 2021, introduces a registration and audit system for STS service providers operating in the Río de la Plata and the Río Uruguay. If you haven’t heard it yet, we recommend listening to the previous episode first, where we explained what STS operations are, who is involved, and discussed Disposition No. 141, which regulates these maneuvers in offshore waters. LISTEN HERE In this new chapter, we focus on the requirements companies must meet, the POAC’s role, the oversight mechanisms of the National Naval Prefecture, and how this regulation completes Uruguay’s legal framework for aquatic environmental protection.
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Port Safety: Key Points of Decree 394/018
In this episode, we dive into Uruguay’s Decree 394/018, the regulation that defines safety standards for port operations both on land and on board vessels. We discuss its origin, who it applies to, and the key requirements for companies and workers—ranging from risk prevention plans to confined space protocols and equipment certifications. Whether you’re a port operator, contractor, or maritime professional, this episode outlines the legal framework shaping safety in one of the sector’s most complex environments.
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Maritime Zones under UNCLOS: Sovereignty Beyond the Coast
In this episode, we explore the main maritime zones defined by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone, continental shelf, and the high seas. We analyze the sovereign rights that each State may exercise in these areas, with a special focus on Article 77 regarding the continental shelf and Article 82 on contributions related to exploitation beyond 200 nautical miles.
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STS (Shio to Ship) operations in Uruguay
STS (Ship to Ship) Operations What are they? Who is involved? What does current regulation require? In this episode, we explore the technical, legal, and environmental aspects of ship-to-ship operations within Uruguay’s Exclusive Economic Zone, including Maritime Regulation No. 141 and the role of the National Naval Prefecture.
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Non-Offence-Related Abandonment under the Uruguayan Customs Code: Implications for Maritime and Port Operations
In this episode, we explore non-offence-related abandonment under the Uruguayan Customs Code (Law No. 19,276), a legal concept that has gained relevance in port and logistics operations. How is it established? What are the implications for logistics operators and shipowners? How does it affect the management of abandoned containers? We analyze the scenarios covered by Article 98, the judicial procedure for declaring abandonment, and the available options for disposing of abandoned cargo, ranging from auctions to destruction. Additionally, we address the ongoing challenges faced by the maritime and port sector, including uncovered operational costs and the lack of compensation in cases of cargo destruction.
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Legal Authorization of Guarantees Issued by P&I Clubs in Uruguay
In this episode of Uruguay Marítimo, we explore Article 4 of Law 19.246, which regulates the acceptance of letters of guarantee issued by Protection & Indemnity Clubs (P&I Clubs) in ship arrest proceedings. We discuss: ⚓ What P&I Clubs are and the role of their letters of guarantee. ⚓ The importance of the International Group of P&I Clubs as a requirement for recognition. ⚓ The legal requirements that such guarantees must meet to be accepted in Uruguay. A key analysis to understand how Uruguayan law balances creditors’ legal security with shipowners’ operational needs in maritime commerce.
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The Safety of People On Board Under the SOLAS Convention
In this episode, we explore how the SOLAS Convention and its complementary codes establish international standards aimed at protecting the lives of all people who work or transit on board ships. We discuss the ISM Code, which requires the implementation of a documented and audited Safety Management System, and the ISPS Code, which regulates access control and protection against unlawful acts. We also review essential safety measures: crew familiarization, fire and abandonment drills, monitoring of hazardous atmospheres, visitor logbooks, and procedures for confined spaces.
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