Monford Management Ltd v Afina Navigation Ltd [2026] EWCA Civ 251 (18.03.26)

Two bulk carriers, the KIVELI and AFINA I, collided off the south coast of Greece, causing substantial damage to both. The Admiralty judge found that the COLREGS 1972 applied and allocated primary fault to the KIVELI (80:20). CA considered the challenge as to whether the encounter qualified as a “head on” situation under Rule 41 but upheld the trial decision, confirming that full visibility of sidelights is not required, and that vessels on reciprocal or near-reciprocal courses fall within the Rule. The CA clarified that Rule 14 obligations continue until the collision risk ends and noted that nautical assessors are not appointed as a matter of course on appeals, requiring parties to justify their necessity and scope. The appeal was dismissed.

Read the full judgment here.