ASTREA advises Belgian and international clients on all aspects of maritime and transport law, acting for major marine insurers, cargo and ship interests, government bodies, and sector intermediaries. The team handles cargo damage, collisions, general average, ship leasing, arrests and maritime pre-trial measures, providing both advisory and contentious support. Practice head Marc Van Looveren specialises in shipping, logistics, arrests and commodity trading, while Ruud De Houwer advises on collisions, salvage, wreck removal and broader maritime matters for public and private clients.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Legal powerhouse in their field of law. Responsive, eloquent and knowledgeable team.'
- ‘First class shipping team.’
- ‘They have a diverse team with expertise in several legal matters. You always have one point of contact, and they revert back internally for any specific issues. They have expertise in a variety of fields, apart from court cases, they also provide general legal advice, studies and draft legislation.’
- ‘Ruud De Houwer is our main contact person. His work is very thorough, timely and of exceptional quality. He is also sincere; he doesn't drag us into endless court cases, but always provides a quick solution. He also remains kind and professional, even if his opponents are less professional.'
- ‘Excellent team at Astrea, super industry experience, very responsive to any questions, clear and concise guidance and advice.’
- ‘Marc Van Lovern is our main contact and found him super in a recent complex case. Advice was clear, and the potential pathway was clearly defined.’
Key clients
- Skuld P&I
- NorthStandard
- West of England P&I
- Euronav – CMBTech
- Belgian Federal Government – Department of Science Policy (Belspo)
- Belgian Federal Government – Department of Transport and Mobility
- Belgian Federal Government – Department of Health and the Environment
- Vanguard Logistics
- Saga Welco
- Briese Schiffahrts / BBC Shipping Chartering
- Great White Fleet (Chiquita)
- Einride AB
Work highlights
Assists the owner of the MV CT Pachuca following a major oil spill in Antwerp in June 2024, facing multiple liability claims and court survey requests totalling nearly €20m.
Advise the Belgian Federal Government on issues arising from the operation of the research vessel Belgica, which faces claims exceeding €7m.
Represents the owners of the MV BBC Virginia in a $14 million cargo claim alleging fire damage to yachts shipped aboard the vessel. Following the vessel’s arrest in Antwerp in 2023, the firm is guiding the owners through ongoing court-appointed surveys and related proceedings.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Marc Van Looveren
Other key lawyers
Ruud De Houwer