The owner of the tow (i. e. the hirer) is effectively responsible for all liabilities arising during the tow; the tug is exempt even where negligent (which is why UK Standard Towage Conditions are so popular with tugowners around the world).
The tugowner’s liability for death or personal injury resulting from negligence cannot be excluded or restricted, however, and he will also be liable for claims resulting directly from his personal failure to exercise reasonable care to make the tug or tender seaworthy for navigation at the commencement of the towing or other service. The hirer must indemnify the tugowner for any claims for loss or damage made against the tugowner.
