Weather Routing in CP Clauses: Master’s Call vs. Charterers' Expectations

 🧭 Weather Routing in CP Clauses: Master’s Call vs. Charterers' Expectations

❓ Should a ship always follow the weather routing company’s advice?
❓ Can the Master deviate from the agreed route without consequences?
❓ Do you know what details to report when your speed or route changes mid-voyage?

If you hesitated while answering any of these, then this post is for you.

⚓ Charter Party Clause Breakdown

"We will generally supply your vessel with weather routing advice from a service supplier like StormGeo, Interoutes (IRS), Alphaori, Blue Water Trade Winds (BOSS), Weathernews Inc (WNI), or similar... The final decision on safe navigation of the vessel of course remains with the Master..."

🔍 Explanation & Implications:

This clause outlines the integration of third-party weather routing into a voyage – typically done to enhance fuel efficiency, ensure safety, and optimize passage planning. While weather routing companies propose ideal routes, Masters retain overriding authority on safety decisions under SOLAS and customary maritime law.

However, operators and Masters are expected to:

• Cooperate with the routing company.
• Inform Oldendorff and the routing company of any route deviation.
• Provide real-time updates on speed, consumption, and bunker ROB.
• Aim for cost-effective navigation, especially around ECA zones (e.g., LSFO savings in EU/US).

🚩 Common Pitfalls

• ❌ Not informing charterers when deviating from recommended routes.
• ❌ Missing bunker ROB snapshots at key moments (e.g., speed change, port arrival).
• ❌ Blindly following routing advice without assessing navigational safety.
• ❌ Delayed feedback on routing changes or rough weather challenges.

⚖️ Legal Context & BIMCO Insight

📚 BIMCO Weather Routing Clauses (e.g., SHIPROUTE Clause) highlight that while routing advice is valuable, it’s non-binding. Safety remains the Master's duty and right.

📌 Case Reference: In The Hill Harmony [2001] UKHL 6, the court ruled that refusal to follow reasonable charterer instructions (including weather routing) could result in off-hire if unjustified.

Lesson: You may deviate, but your reason must be defensible—preferably documented.

✅ Actionable Tips for Shipping Stakeholders

🔹 Masters / Ship Operators:

• Always evaluate routing advice against real-time conditions.
• Document why a deviation was necessary (e.g., safety, stability, weather).
• Keep a clear paper trail via emails and bridge logs.

🔹 Owners / Technical Managers:

• Vet routing partners for reliability and transparency.
• Train Masters to align routing with CP expectations.
• Monitor ROB updates and routing compliance via dashboards.

🔹 Charterers / Operators:

• Provide clear instructions via Voyage Orders.
• Keep communication two-way—respect Master’s expertise.
• Don’t assume non-compliance = negligence; investigate first.

🚀 Conclusion: Stay Aligned, Stay Safe

Weather routing is a tool—not a rule. Smart operators and wise Masters know how to blend advice with experience and communication with compliance. Follow the clause, but don’t compromise on safety.

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📌 Disclaimer:

This blog is meant for educational purposes and operational awareness in the shipping industry. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, readers must consult their company’s legal team or chartering desk for CP-specific obligations.