International legal status of the floating drill rigs

Abstract

In terms of the construction and legal status the floating drill rigs are considered to be marine vessels as stated in the international treaties and agreements. However, being built and operating on the continental shelf they acquire the legal status of artificial islands, structures. Nevertheless, the changes in the legal status lead to change in jurisdiction but does not affect the legal status of the floating drilling rigs as marine vessels.

Keywords:

continental shelf, off shore floating drilling rigs, artificial islands, rights, jurisdiction and duties of the coastal State in the continental shelf