The Antonis P. Lemos - Q.B.D. (Adm.Ct.) (Sheen J.) - 7 June 1983

Sub-charterer proceeding against shipowners in negligence - Whether entitled to proceed in rem - Whether claim arising out of agreement for hire of ship

The plaintiffs were sub-charterers of the vessel Antonis P. Lemos. In October 1981 the vessel loaded a quantity of corn at Houston, Texas, for carriage to Alexandria. On arrival at Alexandria in November 1981 the vessel was unable to berth until she had reduced her draught by discharging some of her cargo into lighters. That operation caused delay and involved the plaintiffs in additional expense in respect of which they claimed damages from the vessel’s owners.