Ugovor o gradnji broda.

The paper deals with the institute of the shipbuilding contract in general and with its regulation in the Croatian Maritime Code. After the introductory note about naval architecture, the author systematically analyzes the concept and the legal nature of the shipbuilding contracts in the Republic of Croatia, and in some foreign countries (the USA, England and Italy). The text proceeds by analyzing all essential elements of this contract, beginning with the definition of the shipbuilding contract, form of contract, execution of the contract, ownership of the boat in the construction, shipbuilders responsibilities and obligations, control of the shipbuilding construction and the types thereof, responsibility for deficiencies, price, retention right, delivery of the ship, delay of delivery and force majeure, statute of limitations, etc. Special attention is devoted to situations and execution of shipbuilding contracts with international element and the issues of applicable law and court jurisdiction. International conventions that are relevant for the unification of regulations of the shipbuilding contract are discussed, as well as the best known clauses that are most often used in practice. In conclusion the author positively evaluates current normative arrangement of the shipbuilding contract giving a brief overview of the current state of the Croatian shipbuilding industry and stressing the need for a faster restructuring and renovation of Croatian shipyards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]