Exhibit 10.6
 
December 23, 2009

Mr. Erik F. Johnsen
P.O. Box 160
Covington, LA  70434

Reference: Erik F. Johnsen Consulting Agreement

This letter will confirm that International Shipholding Corporation has agreed
to retain you as a consultant for a period of time commencing January 1, 2010,
and ending December 31, 2010.  Your consulting compensation will be annual fee
of $250,000, payable pro-rata in monthly installments of $20,833.34, plus
reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.  At the end of the agreed period of time,
this Agreement is automatically extended month-by-month with a continuation of
said pro-rata monthly installments of $20,833.34.

This Agreement may be cancelled by either party on giving a 90-day notice of
cancellation.

Please sign below to acknowledge your agreement and acceptance of this
Consulting Agreement.

Sincerely,

/s/ Niels M. Johnsen

N. M. Johnsen
Chairman of the Board

AGREED AND ACCEPTED:

/s/ Erik F. Johnsen
___________________________________
Erik. F. Johnsen

___1/11/10_______________________________
Date