The term primage refers to a bonus paid to the captain of a vessel as a supplement to their wages. This payment is typically made to recognize the captain's personal care and management of the ship, in addition to their base salary. It is important to note that primage is only applicable unless the captain has made a different agreement with their employer regarding compensation.
Primage is primarily used in maritime law, which governs activities on navigable waters. This term is relevant in contracts and agreements involving shipping and vessel operations. Understanding primage can be essential for captains and shipping companies to ensure fair compensation practices. Legal forms related to employment contracts for maritime workers may include clauses about primage, which users can manage with tools like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, a shipping company may agree to pay a captain a base salary of $5,000 per month, plus an additional $500 as primage for their personal oversight of the ship during voyages. This ensures that the captain is compensated not only for their time but also for the extra responsibilities they undertake.
(hypothetical example) In another scenario, a captain who negotiates a contract stating that no primage will be paid may not receive this bonus, even if they perform exceptionally well in managing the vessel.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Wages | Regular payment for work performed. | Primage is a bonus, while wages are the base payment. |
| Bonus | An additional payment given for performance or achievement. | Primage specifically relates to maritime captains and their responsibilities. |
If you are a captain or a shipping company, it's important to clearly outline any agreements regarding primage in your employment contracts. Consider using US Legal Forms' templates to create or review your contracts. If you have questions or face complex issues regarding primage, consulting a legal professional is advisable.
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Primage is a bonus paid to a vessel's captain for their personal care of the ship, supplementing their wages.