Death of a Skipper and Obligation of Maritime Assistance in International Waters

What to do in case of the death of the skipper, the sole helmsman of a vessel, in international waters?

The case is that of a pleasure craft helmed by a skipper who dies of natural causes during navigation, leaving the passengers alone on board and unable to bring the vessel safely back to port. They activate the distress beacon and are rescued under the maritime obligation of assistance.

At the time of rescue, the assisting vessel recovers the surviving passengers but does not retrieve the deceased, leaving him on board, adrift with the boat. The RC insurance does not cover this claim because the vessel owner did not subscribe to additional annexes for repatriation, towing, etc.

Did the assisting vessel have an obligation to recover the deceased, or could it leave him on the vessel? Can the flag state's responsibility of the assistant be questioned?

If you also encounter this kind of maritime dispute or have questions regarding leisure or transport maritime insurance, do not hesitate to contact Me Florence ROMEO, a lawyer expert with a degree in maritime law and law of the sea, who will assist and advise you in all your difficulties.