Exam Question

### (a) Principles of Modern Salvage Law
Modern salvage law is primarily governed by the **International Convention on Salvage 1989**. Its core principles are designed to encourage mariners to assist vessels in distress while providing a framework for fair compensation. The key principles are:
1. **Voluntary Service**: The act of salvage must be voluntary. The salvor must not be under any pre-existing contractual or official duty to render assistance. For example, the crew of the vessel in distress or a tug already contracted to assist are not typically considered voluntary salvors.
2. **Property in Danger**: The subject of the salvage (vessel, cargo, freight at risk) must be in a state of real and recognizable danger. The peril does not need to be immediate or absolute, but there must be a genuine apprehension of loss or damage if assistance is not rendered. This can include grounding, fire, collision, or mechanical breakdown in a perilous location.