The Law of the Sea
So what is it and how were laws established? Check out this well-known site for a short history and clear explanation, as well as links to piracy, privateering, and freedom of the seas.
http://www.bartleby.com/65/ma/maritime.html
This site is the home of the UN's division for Ocean Affairs and Law of the Sea and has extensive, current articles related to international maritime law.
http://www.un.org/Depts/los/index.htm