Shipping: Cyprus

THE FIRM As the largest firm in Cyprus, this team covers the full range of shipping issues including ship finance and disputes. Of late it has acted on an increasing amount of admiralty proceedings, particularly regarding the arrest of ships and cargo to secure unpaid debts. Notable highlights include advising BW Group on a USD500 million indenture with HSBC, and assisting Equinox Offshore Accommodation with financing and contract matters. 

Sources say: "The team is prompt, detailed and accurate."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients hold Costas Stamatiou in high esteem for his in-depth knowledge and responsiveness.

"Brilliant" department head Panayiotis Neocleous has "tremendous expertise because of his constant deal flow. We can go directly into the subject, and he can really deliver," according to sources.

Associate Vasileios Psyrras regularly works on admiralty disputes and has inside experience of the shipping business, having previously worked in a seagoing role, as well as in a shipping company.

THE FIRM The outstanding shipping practice at this Limassol firm counts many ship management companies as long-standing clients. The team also advises financial institutions, shipowners, charter parties, shipyards and insurers on the full spectrum of commercial shipping matters. The team's considerable depth allows it to act on complex financing and maritime disputes. The firm is the official representative of the Marshall Islands corporate and maritime programme in Cyprus.

Sources say: "One of the best firms – we are fully satisfied with the team's service."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Eliana Constantinidou is a highly respected dry shipping practitioner. She acts for banks and financial institutions on ship finance and project finance transactions.

Michael McBride advises shipowners, ship managers and ship brokers on a wide range of issues including tax, vessel registration, chartering and the sale and purchase of vessels.

THE FIRM This shipping boutique is highly respected for its contentious and non-contentious work. The firm advises local and international players, and it belongs to the groups of correspondents of various P&I clubs such as West of England and Coastal Marine Services.

Sources say: "Efficient and knowledgeable."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Acis Montanios is highly respected for his ship financing advice, and he has written numerous publications on the topic. 

Managing partner Eric Montanios is regarded as a leading shipping litigator. He has considerable knowledge of the industry thanks to his role as deputy chairman of the Tsakos Group. 

Adam Montanios is well renowned for his work in the field of ship registration. He also serves as company secretary of SeaBird Exploration and Deep Sea Supply.