Ganado Advocates advises on vessel and mortgage registration under the Malta flag and the purchase and sale of second-hand vessels registered or intended to be registered in Malta. The team is jointly led by five partners: Daniel Aquilina, who specialises in Maltese law security documentation and has experience in complex multi-vessel and aircraft finance transactions; Matthew Xerri, who focuses on ship and aviation finance; Matthew Attard, who advises on vessel registration and sale and purchase transactions; Karl Grech Orr, who handles a broad range of shipping and corporate matters; and Christine Cassar Naudi, who provides advice on income tax, stamp duty, and VAT implications. Caroline Risiott is also recognised for her contribution to various legal drafting initiatives.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Very good team, very efficient - great support on the Maltese aspect of our shipping deals.’
‘Hardworking and committed professionals.’
‘First class knowledge of the law, always responsive, and very efficient. Well-deserved reputation as the go-to lender's practice in Malta.’
‘Daniel Aquilina is a first-class practitioner.’
‘Caroline Risiott is excellent. She is always a pleasure to work with.’
‘Great depth to their team - in my view Malta's top shipping firm and the team I would always want to work with.’

Key clients

Banco BPM

Work highlights

Acted for the lenders in connection with Eastaway France SAS’s 2024 financing of six vessels under French leasing structures, with a total transaction value exceeding $280 million.