In addition to Winston & Strawn LLP‘s litigation and regulatory credentials, the firm’s maritime attorneys advise on major finance deals. The practice is experienced in assisting both US and non-US entities with vessel-related deals, including Jones Act financings, foreign investments in Jones Act vessels and companies, vessel finance involving the US government’s Title XI guarantee, and Capital Construction Fund programs. The DC-based group also advises on equity and debt issues, including IPOs and other offerings involving senior and subordinated debt and equity hybrids. The firm’s project financing, structured finance and private equity teams additionally handle shipping industry deals. Chairing the firm’s maritime and admiralty practice, Charlie Papavizas represents shipowners, shipyards, energy companies, marine construction companies, financial institutions, and operators and managers. Supporting Papavizas, Bryant Gardner’s practice includes maritime government contract negotiations and disputes, US flag programs, and Jones Act compliance work.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • American Cruise Lines
  • Arroyo Energy Investment Partners LLC
  • Caladan Oceanic, LLC
  • Government of U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Liberty Maritime Corporation
  • Oaktree Capital Management, L.P.
  • Orion Energy Partners, L.P.
  • Pasha Group
  • RBC Capital Markets Corporation
  • Tidewater Inc.

Work highlights

  • Advising Citibank, N.A. and Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (as maritime counsel), in relation to a secured revolving credit facility provided to Valaris Limited.
  • Represented Pareto Securities in a private placement of notes issued by Edda Wind III, an entity owned by Østensjø Rederi AS.
  • Represented Bay-Houston, as purchaser, on the acquisition of Seabulk Towing Services, Inc. from Seabulk Towing Holdings Inc.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Charlie Papavizas

Other key lawyers

Bryant Gardner