Wreck removal convention in force

The main objective of the Convention is to provide uniform international rules and procedures in respect of removing shipwrecks posing a hazard to navigation, or to marine and coastal environments. A state party may take measures in relation to the removal of a wreck in the Convention area and the costs of wreck removal will be covered by shipowners. The Convention also requires shipowners to obtain insurance or financial security so as to cover the costs of wreck removal and provides for a right of coastal states of direct action against the insurer. The 19 contracting states include notably Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, India, Iran, Malaysia, Morocco, Nigeria, Palau and the UK