A Notice of Readiness (NOR) is a formal written notice the Master tenders to the charterer (or their agent), stating the vessel has arrived at the loading or discharge port and is ready in all respects to commence cargo operations.
Why the Exact Timing Matters
Under most charter party terms, the time NOR is tendered and accepted is what starts the laytime clock — the allowed time for loading or discharge. If the vessel isn’t genuinely ready when NOR is tendered, or if there’s a dispute about the tendering time, it can directly affect demurrage or dispatch calculations, which involve real money.
”Ready in All Respects”
For a valid NOR, the vessel must genuinely be ready — holds clean and prepared, cargo gear operational, all necessary documentation in order. Tendering NOR when the vessel isn’t actually ready can be challenged and invalidated, which is why accuracy in this document carries real commercial consequences.
NOR and Port/Berth Terms
Charter parties vary on whether NOR can be validly tendered “on arrival” at the port limits, or only once the vessel is actually berthed — this distinction (often called “port charter party” vs “berth charter party”) significantly affects when the laytime clock legally starts.
Who Handles NOR in Practice
While the Master formally tenders NOR, the actual document is often prepared with input from the ship’s agent, and disputes over NOR validity typically involve the company’s operations and legal teams, not just the vessel.
Exam Relevance
NOR, its relationship to laytime, and port vs berth charter party distinctions are standard Cargo Work and Ship Knowledge topics in senior deck officer competency exams.