This paper analyzes in detail the legal aspects of the ship charter contract, starting with the basic concepts of contract and offer and the procedures for concluding a contract between those present and those absent. The legal framework of the ship charter contract is studied, including its key ingredients, such as the ship, the purpose of use, the rent and the duration of the contract. The differences between the ship charter contract and the shipping contract are emphasized, and the obligations and responsibilities of the contracting parties are elaborated. Special attention is paid to the types of ship charter contracts, among which the voyage charter contract and the time contract stand out. International rules governing maritime contracts are also discussed, including the Hague Rules, the Hague-Visby Protocol and the UN Convention on the Carriage of Goods by Sea. The paper specifically focuses on BIMCO forms, especially BARECON 2001, which represent standardized contract forms widely accepted in the maritime industry. It is recommended that these forms be further improved and adapted in order to continue to support international standards and ensure the protection of contracting parties.