Book excerpt: This book offers unique insight into the public and private governance of international shipping from the 1970s through to the 2010s. Focusing on the part played by maritime classification societies, it highlights the role played by the European Union during this time and its influence in creating transnational maritime regulations. The emergence of the Treaty of Rome and the European Parliament in enabling market liberalisation within the shipping industry on the one hand and more stringent maritime safety regulation on the other is examined, alongside the common transport policy and enforcement of international maritime rules. Particularly attention is given to the growth of the European Union’s maritime presence, the establishment of the European Maritime Safety Agency, developments in flag state implementation, and relations between the International Maritime Organization and the European Union. This book presents a detailed guide to the European Union’s role as a maritime safety regulator and the impact this has had on the shipping industry and its governance structure. It will be relevant to researchers and policymakers interested in maritime and transport economics as well as to students of European affairs and of international relations.