Shipping

Watson Farley & Williams

Client Satisfaction

Watson Farley & Williams acts for charterers, shipyards, financial institutions, funds, insurance companies, maritime agencies, port operators and brokers on the full spectrum of maritime deals. Shipping specialist Furio Samela focuses on loan agreements, financial transactions, security packages, and the sale and purchase of vessels. Samela also advises on sale and leaseback deals, workouts, derivatives, and restructuring and insolvency. Also key to the group are Michele Autuori, who is ‘highly specialised in shipping and transportation law’; and Davide Canepa, whose practice includes shipping, maritime and shipbuilding disputes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Availability of a wide range of expertise that can help companies with all the aspects of a project.’
‘They bring a wealth of experience to addressing complex legal challenges effectively.’
‘Their swift problem-solving skills and adaptability, coupled with proactive collaboration so as to help clients achieve their goals, distinguish them in the industry.’
‘Michele Autuori has the ability to walk in the clients’ shoes and provide clear views of the legal framework to non-legal people. His support is essential when making choices.’
‘Michele Autuori is highly specialised in shipping and transportation law.’
‘Davide Canepa is a trusted authority in maritime law and regulation.’
‘Davide Canepa possesses extensive expertise in the field, particularly in relation to the terms and conditions of insurance policies and coverage.’
‘Clients are extremely satisfied with Davide Canepa’s professionalism and competence, as he consistently provides detailed assistance on all aspects of clients’ needs.’

Key clients

China Merchants Financial Leasing
Snam
Navigazione Montanari
Eni
Fratelli Cosulich
Mediterranea di Navigazione
GeoTeam
Crédit Agricole
UniCredit
Banco BPM
BPER Banca
Banca Popolare di Sondrio
DeA Capital Alternative Funds SGR
Banca MPS
Merit Maritime

Work highlights

Advised BPER Banca on a financing granted to Coscos for the acquisition of the entire share capital of Trasgo.
Advised Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank on $3.92bn pre-and post-delivery loan facilities, which were granted to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings for the acquisition of four cruise vessels.
Advised Snam Group on the finalisation of its approximately $400m acquisition from BW LNG of FSRU I.