Costa Allegra - Salvage Question

[Rower]

Am I right in thinking that the French Fisherman who towed the Costa Allegra to safety are in for a massive salvage pay out ? I am assuming that as the Captain had accepted their help a salvage contract was in place ?

I just love the thought of those French guys doggedly towing the thing at 6knots probabley shagging their engines but knowing they were in for a mahoosive pay out , what is the position ?

Rower

[Nicholas Blair]

I thought this too - is that why they wouldn't let the tugs near?

[MOTORVATOR]

Basic terms would have been agreed before passing lines. They'll get paid well but not as much as if the ship had been abandoned.

It's not really salvage just providing tow services.

[davepoth]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law_of_salvage

It's one of the very oldest laws in the world. Charges will vary, but I think they will have a nice Christmas this year.