What problem might arise where voyage charterers have nominated a port agent, and what can be done to remedy it?

The agent, having a close relationship with charterers, might fail to give all due attention to the ship's business, such as crew matters, stores, repairs, etc. In such a case the master should: (1) remind the agents of their primary responsibility to the shipowners (as principal); and/or (2) advise owners of managers to appoint a protecting agent or husbandry agent (i. e. an agent v duties would be solely to look after the ship's business and not the cargo operations).