The aim of the article1 is the identification of components of maritime governance and evolution of the concept of maritime governance in contemporary International Relations. The main research questions are: what elements constitute the structure of maritime governance and why the role of maritime governance is increasing in the policy of super and regional powers. The answer to these questions will be used to verify the adopted hypothesis which indicates that maritime governance is a dynamic process consisting of interdependent areas of legal regulations, blue economy, security and environmental elements. Their horizontal and vertical interdependence and interrelation while dealing with oceans make maritime governance necessary instrument for super and regional powers to attain their interests. Based on the presented assumptions and purpose, the following structure of the article was adopted. The introduction highlights the role of oceans in the world affairs and presents research questions and hypothesis. In the second part of the article main stages of discourse on maritime governance are discussed and characterized, putting emphasis on the process of shaping its conceptual and terminological framework. Methodological differences and similarities in defining maritime governance are explored. The third part indicates the operational dimension of the concept of maritime governance, presenting the stages of the process of institutionalization of maritime cooperation between states. Finally, the case study of the Integrated Maritime Policy of the European Union is presented to serve as an exemplification of the modern maritime governance. The conclusion of the article contains answers to the research questions posed.