Exam Question

### (a) Principles of Modern Salvage Law
Modern salvage law operates on several core principles, largely codified in the **International Convention on Salvage 1989**. These principles ensure fairness to both the salvor and the owner of the salved property, while also prioritizing the protection of the marine environment.
1. **Voluntary Service**: The act of salvage must be voluntary. The salvor must not be under any pre-existing contractual or legal duty to render assistance. For example, a vessel's own crew or a pilot engaged for navigation cannot claim salvage for performing their normal duties. However, if their actions go far beyond the scope of their duty in an extraordinary situation, a claim might be considered.
2. **Recognized Subject of Salvage**: The service must be rendered to recognized maritime property. This includes the vessel itself, its apparel, equipment, cargo, freight at risk, and bunkers. It does not typically extend to persons (saving life at sea is a duty), but life salvage may be rewarded from the salvors of the property.