Marine Recreational Opportunities, Inc. v. Berman

WINTER, Circuit Judge:

Marine Recreational Opportunities, Inc. (“MRO”) appeals from Judge Keenan’s order dismissing its complaint for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. MRO commenced this action under 46 U.S.C.App. § 183 (1988), seeking exoneration from, or limitation of, its liability for injuries to Gerald Berman. Ber-man’s injuries were suffered aboard a vessel *271previously sold by MRO. We conclude that MRO was not an “owner” of the vessel within the meaning of Section 183. We therefore affirm the district court’s dismissal.

In 1991, MRO purchased a pleasure craft, a 1987 Cruisers, Inc. 286…