The US Supreme Court decision siding with Tsakos Shipping and Trading in the 16-year-long Athos I oil spill case was hailed by shipowners as solidifying charterers' commonly understood responsibilities.
Monday, the high court found Citgo Asphalt Refining Company (Carco) liable for $168m for the 2004 oil spill on the Delaware River, finding the charter — an ASBATANKVOY contract from the Association of Ship Brokers and Agents (ASBA) — plainly stated it was Carco's responsibility to find a safe berth and keep the ship safely afloat.
