Shipping

The firm’s shipping practice acts for some of the world’s leading financial institutions, law firms, ship builders, yacht brokers, ship owners and charterers, and has gained an international reputation for commercially sensitive legal advice relating to all aspects of acquisition, registration, financing, disposal and operation of ships in the context of a tax neutral port of British registry.  

Ship Registration

Both the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands comprise Category 1 branches of the General Register of British Ships. The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry allows for the registration general cargo ships of unlimited tonnage, and mega yachts of up to 3000GT, and the Cayman Islands Shipping Registry has no tonnage restriction on the registration of vessels.

Our shipping team can assist with the full registration process, including the registrations of new builds, transfers of ownership, and transfers of existing vessels into the jurisdiction. 

Ship Financing

We regularly advise lenders on loan agreements and security documents, asset securitisation structures and operating and financial lease structures.  

Shipping Litigation

The firm also conducts a large international shipping litigation practice which advises on maritime disputes and the implementation of maritime claims against vessels, including vessel arrest and detention.

Contact Sheila George for more on Shipping.