271. Limitation of shipowner’s liability in certain cases of loss of or damage to goods
Feedback & supportThe owner of a British ship, or any share therein, shall not be liable to make good to any extent whatever any loss or damage happening without his actual fault or privity in the following cases:
owner
“owner”, used in relation to goods, means every person who is for the time being entitled, either as owner or agent for the owner, to the possession of the goods, subject in the case of a lien, if any, to that lien;
where any goods, merchandise or other thing whatsoever taken in or put on board his ship are lost or damaged by reason of fire on board the ship; or
where any gold, silver, diamonds, watches, jewels or precious stones taken in or put on board his ship, the true nature and value of which have not at the time of shipment been declared by the owner or shipper thereof to the owner or master of the ship in the bills of lading or otherwise in writing, are lost or damaged by reason of any robbery, embezzlement, making away with or secreting thereof.[294
ship
“ship” includes every description of vessel used in navigation not propelled by oars;