Maritime law is a complex and specialized area of the law that governs the relationships between certain parties in the operation of vessels and any activity related to shipping. It is one of the oldest areas of international law and is based on the custom and usage of the maritime nations and traditionally followed by shipping companies and seafaring people.

Maritime law is distinctive from common law and most countries have statutes, regulations, case law and treaties which form the basis of the governing law. In some countries, such as the United States and the UK, maritime law is part of their domestic laws and operates together with other legal codes.

In its broadest sense, maritime law involves all commercial pursuits and operations involving ships and the sea, including operations of transport and use of the ships and vessels; marine insurance; ship registration; and rules for the construction, operation and management of ships. Additionally, maritime law also encompasses any activity or activity related to shipping, as well as commercial fishing and the extraction of oil and other mineral resources from the sea bed. It also covers contracts between key players in the marine industry, such as ship owners, charterers, exporters, and suppliers.

The complexity of the law arises from the many maritime conventions, conventions, and treaties at both the international and domestic levels, often incorporating centuries of international practice and treaties. Maritime law also seeks to protect the environment from pollution, via legislation such as the Pollution from Ships Act of 1978 and the Maritime Labour Convention of 2006 details how companies should provide rest and working conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of their crew.

Maritime law enforcement is a key factor in ensuring that everyone related to the maritime industry follows the set rules and regulations. Navigational rules, marine safety regulations and vessel inspections are some of the responsibilities of the maritime law enforcement. They are also further evolved and extended by international organizations such as the International Maritime Organization.

Finally, while there is an increasing number of disputes and claims in the maritime industry, there is also a growing trend of controlling overall costs and minimising standard conflict of laws. This can also be tackled by the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) protocols, such as arbitration, mediation and other out-of-court solutions.

In conclusion, maritime law is a body of law dedicated to the unique elements of the maritime environment. It has evolved over time and is continuously updated to reflect the complex needs of an ever-progressing marine industry. It helps protect the environment, ensure the safety of sailors, and implements protocols for resolving disputes.