The second edition of this law school casebook, like the first, focuses on modern admiralty practice. The cases and materials selected discuss current issues that a maritime lawyer faces, in addition to the historical bases of those issues. This second edition includes new and significant cases decided since the first edition was published, including cases affecting vessel status, maritime contracts and punitive damages. Another key feature of the book remains the inclusion of applicable legislation alongside cases, rather than in a statutory supplement. This inclusion allows students to see and understand the critical relationship between case law and statutes in admiralty. The book can be used for a general admiralty course or for a shorter, more focused maritime personal injury course.