Legal Definitions - salvage service

Definition: Salvage service refers to the aid or rescue given to a vessel in need of assistance due to present or potential danger. This assistance can be provided voluntarily or through a contract.

Salvage service is different from towing service, which is provided to expedite a voyage and not necessarily in response to dangerous circumstances.

• If a ship is stranded on a reef and in danger of sinking, a salvage service may be called to help remove the ship from the reef and prevent it from sinking.
• If a ship's engine fails in the middle of the ocean and it is unable to move, a salvage service may be called to tow the ship to safety.

These examples illustrate how a salvage service can be used to rescue a vessel in danger and prevent further damage or loss.