Wilhelmsen Ships Services

World leader in the maritime industry, specializing in Technical Services, Unitor Marine Products, Maritime Logistics, and Ships Agency.AA - Always Afloat (In some ports the ship aground when approaching, or at berth.) AAPA - American Association of Port Authorities. ABAFT - A point beyond the midpoint of a ships length, towards the rear or stern. ABANDON - A proceeding wherein a shipper/consignee seeks authority to abandon all or parts of their cargo. ABLE-BODIED SEAMAN - A member of the deck crew who is able to perform all the duties of an experienced seaman; certificated by examination; must have three years sea service. Also called Able Seaman and A.B. ABS - American Bureau of Shipping: A U.S.-based private classification, or standards setting society for merchant ships and other marine systems. ACP - Alternative Compliance Program. AD VALOREM - A term from Latin meaning, "according to value." ADMEASUREMENT - The confirmed or official dimensions of a ship. ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE - A representative of a government commission or agency vested with power to administer oaths, examine witnesses, take testimony, and conduct hearings of cases submitted to, or initiated by, that agency. Also called Hearing Examiner. AFFREIGHTMENT, CONTRACT OF - An agreement by an ocean carrier to provide cargo space on a vessel at a specified time and for a specified price to accommodate an exporter or importer. AFT - In, near, or toward the stern of the vessel. AGENCY FEE - A fee charged to the ship by the ship's agent, representing payment for services while the ship was in port. Sometimes called attendance fee.