A vessel is a large boat or ship. The term vessel, under different laws, may hold different meanings. Therefore, the definition of the vessel can be complex, and it is crucial to understand the exact meaning under any given law or jurisdiction.

This Practice Note deals with the definition of a vessel in the jurisdiction of Kuwait. Article 1 of Kuwait Law No. 28/1980 on the Issuance of the Commercial Maritime Law is the main provision that deals with the definition of a vessel. Further, this Practice Note provides details on the nationality, ownership and the registration of the vessel. Safety of the vessel will also be briefly mentioned in this Practice Note.

• LL Convention: International Convention on Load-Line (LL 1969).

• MARPOL Convention: International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 1978).

• MOC: Ministry of Communication.

• Shipowner: Vessel owner.

• SOLAS: International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS 1974).

• STCW Convention: International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping (STCW 1995).