The definition of the high seas comes from the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), specifically Article 86, which states:
“The provisions of this Part apply to all parts of the sea that are not included in the exclusive economic zone, in the territorial sea or in the internal waters of a State, or in the archipelagic waters of an archipelagic State.”
Sea Areas
Inland sea, inside base line (LAT)
Territorial Sea – 12nm from base line
Contiguous zone – 24nm from base line if claimed by littoral state (Not UK)
EEZ – Exclusive Economic Zone – up to 200nm if claimed
Fishing zone – Up to 200nm if claimed
Many states do not claim their full entitlement and inland seas and EEZ/Fishing may vary due to precedent or individual arrangements.
