Liens against vessels
Wis. Stat. § 780.01
in effectEvery ship, boat or vessel used in navigating the waters of this state shall be liable for and the claims or demands hereinafter mentioned shall constitute a lien on such ship, boat or vessel, which shall take precedence of all other claims or liens thereon:
(1) For all debts contracted by the master, owner, agent or consignee thereof on account of supplies furnished for the use of such ship, boat or vessel, or on account of work done or services rendered on board of such ship, boat or vessel, or on account of labor done or materials furnished by mechanics, tradesmen or others in and for building, repairing, fitting out, furnishing or equipping such ship, boat or vessel, or on account of any indebtedness for insurance effected upon such ship, boat or vessel, the engines, machinery, sails, rigging, tackle, apparel or furniture thereof, against any fire or marine risk.
(2) For all sums due for wharfage, towage or anchorage of such ship, boat or vessel within this state.
(3) For all demands or damages accruing from the nonperformance or malperformance of any contract of affreightment or any contract touching the transportation of persons or property entered into by the master, agent, owner or consignee of the ship, boat or vessel on which such contract is to be performed.
(4) For all damages arising from injuries done to persons or property by such ship, boat or vessel; but no person employed as master, or otherwise, on board of any such ship, boat or vessel to collect or receive freights or passage money shall have any lien as provided in this chapter or be entitled to an action in accordance with its provisions. Such lien may be enforced by proceedings in admiralty or in the cases herein mentioned as prescribed in this chapter.
(5) For all arrearages owed by the owner in child support ordered under s. 48.355 (2) (b) 4. or (4g) (a), 48.357 (5m) (a), 48.363 (2), 938.183 (4), 938.355 (2) (b) 4. or (4g) (a), 938.357 (5m) (a), 938.363 (2), or 948.22 (7) or ch. 767 or 769 or in family support ordered under ch. 767.
Source: WI Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/780.01Fetched: 10/7/2026