When chartering an asset so valuable and with so many risk exposures as a vessel — whether a 15-ft RIB or a 4,000 HP tractor tug, put the agreement in writing. While I have previously written in this magazine about how maritime contracts can be enforceable under admiralty law (see “Marine Contracts: Do I Have to Put it in Writing?” MarineNews, June 2008), it is far preferable to put the terms in writing. Some terminology: A contract to lease a vessel is a “charter party,” or for short a “charter.” While I cannot cover all the terms a vessel charter should include, I highlight below some indispensable ones. First, though, a warning about forms.