International Shipping Disputes

Forum Overview

Dates: November 15 - 17, 2026

Location: Sussex, United Kingdom

The Forum is an annual meeting for a group of up to 48 preeminent shipping disputes practitioners from around the world, each personally selected based on the breadth of their experience resolving disputes for the shipping industry, including ship owners, cargo owners, ship builders, and more. In this highly interactive private roundtable, both the formal sessions and informal networking time present a rare opportunity to explore common concerns, exchange ideas, and resolve challenges with a distinguished group of peers.

Using candid, seminar-style discussion, the group identifies trends and developments in their varied jurisdictions for meaningful dialogue on the most interesting and provocative issues of the day.

2026 Steering Committee

This elite group, comprised of experts in the field, personally nominates all invitees and develops the Agenda, which forms the basis of our discussions.

Committee Co-Chairs

Committee Members

Forum Director

Jessica has a Bachelor’s Degree from McMaster University in Art History, Criticism and Conservation. A seasoned event and marketing manager, she has executed live engagements globally in the legal, technology, financial, not-for-profit and consumer products industries for many of the world’s leading organizations.

Prior to joining Cambridge Forums, Jessica worked in conference management, specializing in executive events for C-Suite executives, Board members and VIP clients. A fluid communicator, Jessica utilizes her leadership skills and passion for creating flawless participant experiences as a Forum Director, focusing on programs in private wealth and antitrust. A food & wine aficionado, Jessica is also accredited with the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 Award in Wine & Spirits.

When she’s out of the office, Jessica enjoys hot yoga, skiing and travel.

CONNECT. ENGAGE. EXCEL. This is a different event, unlike any you've attended

Built on meaningful interactions and genuine connections, the Forum is a premiere gathering for preeminent leaders from across the world specializing in shipping disputes.

"Cambridge Forums offers top drawer networking and professional development. An unparalleled opportunity to share experience and knowledge with well established fellow practitioners from multiple jurisdictions."

James Turner

Barrister and Arbitrator

Quadrant Chambers

United Kingdom

"I found the inaugural Cambridge Forum on International Shipping Disputes interesting, educational and enjoyable. A great opportunity to discuss topical issues and network with fellow marine claims professionals from across the world."

Sam Kendall-Marsden

Chief Claims Officer

NorthStandard

United Kingdom

"Relaxed atmosphere, well-designed sessions, significant contacts at senior level."

Charles Debattista

Joint Head of 36 Stone

The 36 Group

United Kingdom

"This Cambridge Forum on International Shipping Disputes was truly a gathering of preeminent practitioners from 21 different jurisdictions, who successfully delved into current topical issues drawn from recent maritime incidents and legal developments in different jurisdictions in a unique interactive manner. It compared the approach taken by the different jurisdictions, identified and provided clear, practical takeaways in shipping disputes. The discussions were thought provoking and extremely illuminating."

Vivian Ang

Consultant

Allen & Gledhill LLP

Singapore

"The downside is that regular conferences do not seem so attractive anymore."

Paula Bäckdén

Advokat/Counsel

Vinge Lawfirm

Sweden

"Pleasantly surprised by the value I gained from attending this Forum, from the content to the networking opportunities, coupled with excellent organization."