Shipping

Watson Farley & Williams

Client Satisfaction

Watson Farley & Williams‘ maritime industry practice covers ship finance, vessel arrests, disputes, and vessel sales and purchases. Other areas are Italian registry issues, shipbuilding contracts, corporate law, joint ventures, and tax and private equity arrangements. The team further advises on distressed situations, NPLs, restructuring agreements, and shipping insurance. The group’s principal figures are shipping specialist Furio Samela, who is particularly focused on financial transactions, loan agreements, security packages, and restructuring and insolvency; Michele Autuori, whose practice includes leasing deals involving yachts; and ’skilled lawyer‘ Davide Canepa.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'This team is highly specialised in this space and client oriented.'
'Comprises attorneys with expertise in shipping and transportation law; and in this area, they bring a wealth of experience to the table to address complex legal challenges effectively. '
'Stands out from other law practices due to its commitment to innovation, client-centred approach, and dedication to diversity and inclusion.'
'Furio Samela and Michele Autuori are very knowledgeable in their fields, very responsive, and solution oriented.'
'Michele Autuori is always ready to find the correct solution to each problem.'
'Davide Canepa possesses a deep understanding of all facets of transportation law, ranging from maritime regulations to the complexities of logistics, international trade intricacies, and the resolution of cargo claims. Clients who rely on him for their legal needs can rest assured that they have a lawyer who not only comprehends the law but is exceptionally well versed in its every detail.'
'Davide Canepa is a skilled lawyer, who is resourceful and solutions driven.'
'Very pleasant people, good lawyers, and always ready to help the clients.'

Key clients

Snam
Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
UniCredit
Banco BPM
BPER Banca
DeA Capital Alternative Funds SGR
Navigazione Montanari
illimity Bank
ICCREA Banca – Istituto Centrale del Credito Cooperativo
Nemeca Z Maritime Company
Viking Line Abp
Prelios
Fratelli Cosulich
Nova Marine Carriers
AMCO Asset Management Company
Banca Popolare di Sondrio

Work highlights

Advised Snam Group on the drafting of commercial contracts relating to a floating regasification and storage unit.
Advised Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (as facility agent, security agent and mandated lead arranger) on a $65m multi-tranche term syndicated loan facility made available to FINAV.
Advised CSSC (Hong Kong) Shipping Company on the sale and leaseback of two luxury roll-on/roll-off passenger ferries.