Introduction

In today’s global maritime and shipping industry, the effective management of laytime and demurrage is vital for reducing financial risk and ensuring efficient cargo handling. Laytime and Demurrage Calculation Training Course provides in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience on calculating laytime and demurrage in both voyage and time charter parties. With increasing pressure on maritime operators to optimize turnaround time at ports and reduce costs, mastering laytime and demurrage calculations is a strategic asset.

Designed for shipping professionals, port agents, marine lawyers, and operations staff, the course covers real-world scenarios, charter party clauses, time-counting rules, dispute resolution, and commercial implications of miscalculation. Participants will gain both theoretical and practical tools to improve their contractual and operational decision-making in global shipping logistics.

Programme Curriculum

Laytime and Demurrage Calculation Training Course

Introduction

Course Objectives

Understand the fundamentals of laytime calculation and industry-specific terminology.
Analyze key charter party clauses relevant to laytime and demurrage.
Identify the difference between reversible, non-reversible, and average laytime concepts.
Apply practical demurrage calculation techniques using real-life shipping documents.
Evaluate the role of notice of readiness (NOR) and its impact on time counting.
Interpret laytime exceptions and interruption rules in dry and wet charters.
Understand despatch money and its commercial implications.
Use case studies to solve disputes on demurrage claims.
Leverage digital tools and spreadsheets for laytime efficiency analysis.
Master the use of laytime statements and calculations under Gencon and Shelltime charters.
Navigate legal precedents and arbitration related to demurrage.
Understand how port operations impact laytime performance.
Enhance contract negotiation strategies by minimizing laytime exposure.

Target Audience

Chartering Managers
Marine Operations Officers
Port Agents
Ship Owners and Operators
Freight Forwarders
Maritime Lawyers
Claims Analysts
Maritime Training Institutes and Educators

Course Duration: 5 days

Modules Overview

Module 1: Introduction to Laytime and Demurrage

Definition of laytime and demurrage
Types of charter parties (voyage vs. time)
Importance in maritime contracts
Industry standards and terminology
Common disputes overview
Case Study: Laytime misinterpretation leading to financial loss

Module 2: Time Counting and Notice of Readiness (NOR)

When does laytime start?
Valid NOR requirements
Readiness conditions and berth availability
Rules on working and non-working time
Interruptions and holidays
Case Study: Dispute over NOR acceptance at congested port

Module 3: Laytime Calculation Techniques

Statement of facts usage
Reversible vs. non-reversible laytime
Calculation for bulk vs. containerized cargo
Spreadsheet tools for laytime tracking
Daily rate conversion methods
Case Study: Complex bulk carrier laytime calculation

Module 4: Demurrage and Despatch Explained

Definition and triggers of demurrage
Despatch and its rate calculation
Standard demurrage clauses
Impact of delay on profit margins
Documentation for demurrage claims
Case Study: Tanker demurrage due to bad weather delays

Module 5: Charter Party Clauses and Legal Interpretation

Gencon, Asbatankvoy, Shelltime overview
Exceptions and force majeure clauses
Readiness clause interpretation
Redelivery and laytime overlap
Penalty clauses and enforcement
Case Study: Arbitration on laytime exclusion clause

Module 6: Advanced Issues in Laytime Calculation

Multiple port loading/discharging
Interruptions in laytime: rain, strikes, etc.
Berth congestion rules
Shift changes and mechanical failures
Cargo readiness vs. vessel readiness
Case Study: Dry cargo laytime interrupted by port closure

Module 7: Dispute Resolution and Claims Management

Common causes of disputes
Claim documentation and timelines
Arbitration vs. court litigation
Cost recovery strategies
Avoiding penalties through proper recording
Case Study: Legal outcome of wrongly filed demurrage claim

Module 8: Digitalization and Best Practices

Laytime calculation software tools
Automation of statements and reports
Integration with port operations systems
Smart contract clauses
Training and compliance standards
Case Study: Use of digital platforms to reduce calculation errors

Training Methodology

Interactive instructor-led sessions
Case-based problem-solving
Hands-on spreadsheet practice
Simulation of real charter scenarios
Role-play and group exercises
Access to legal document templates

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@fineskilltrainingcenter.org or call +254769199797

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to Fineskill Training Center account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.

Skills & Software Covered

Maritime calculations demurrage shipping contracts

Programme Fee

Duration: 5 Days

Method: Online or Physical

Online Price: $1,000

Physical Price: $1,500

Certification: Accredited Certificate

View Available Dates 📄 Download Course Outline (PDF)

Available Sessions

Location

Month

Year

Oct 19 2026

19 Oct — 23 Oct 2026

💻 Online / Virtual session

Online $1,000