In a Contract of Affreightment, who are the principal parties?

• A. Shipper and consignee
• B. Shipowner and charterer
• C. Carrier and broker
• D. Insurer and insured

Answer: (B)

A Contract of Affreightment is essentially a hire arrangement for moving goods by sea, so the two central players are the shipowner and the charterer. The shipowner provides the vessel and is responsible for its seaworthiness and crew under the agreed terms. The charterer hires the vessel, pays hire, and gives the voyage and cargo instructions to carry out the transport. The shipper and consignee concern the cargo itself and its delivery, not the vessel hire contract. A broker or insurer may be involved in related aspects, but they are not the principal parties to the COA—the core contract is between the shipowner and the charterer.