Exhibit 16


June 24, 2002

Office of the Chief Accountant
Securities and Exchange Commission
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20549

Dear Sir/Madam:

The representations made in this letter are based solely on a discussion with
and representation from the engagement partner on the audits of the financial
statements of this registrant for the two most recent fiscal years.  This
individual is no longer with Arthur Andersen LLP.  We have read Item 4 included
in the Form 8-K dated June 21, 2002 of International Shipholding Corporation
to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and have found no basis
for disagreement with the statements contained therein.

Very truly yours,

/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP

Arthur Andersen LLP

cc:  	Mr. Gary L. Ferguson,
	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
     	International Shipholding Corporation