Maritime, port and transport law

ISLAW is one of Spain’s most renowned law firms in the field of maritime and transport law, with over 15 years’ experience in the sector.

We provide comprehensive legal assistance to shipping companies, logistics operators, exporters, importers, insurers and companies involved in international trade.

Our practice is based in Spain and the Dominican Republic, offering a comparative and strategic vision in a key sector for the global economy.

Legal services in maritime and transport law

Maritime and port law

  • Ship purchase agreements and shipbuilding.
  • Financing of naval projects.
  • Ship operating agreements (leasing, chartering, bills of lading).
  • Navigation accidents and maritime liability.
  • Maritime insurance and claims management.
  • Administrative, judicial and arbitration proceedings.
  • Port law: concessions, licences and terminal management.
  • Sport and recreational boating.

Land transport

  • Domestic and international transport contracts.
  • Claims for damage to goods.
  • Civil liability of the carrier.
  • Land transport insurance.
  • Related administrative and legal proceedings.

Environmental Licences and Assessments

  • Activity licences and environmental licences.
  • Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
  • Public water, maritime-terrestrial and port domains.
  • Defence against revocations or disciplinary proceedings.

Aviation law

  • Aircraft registration in Spain and the Dominican Republic.
  • Aircraft purchase agreements.
  • Financing of aeronautical operations.
  • Aircraft operating agreements.
  • Aircraft accidents and claims.

Transport and charter contracts

  • Chartering by voyage or by time.
  • Multimodal and combined transport.
  • Drafting and adaptation of contractual clauses.

International trade and customs

  • Advice on international sales (INCOTERMS).
  • Logistics and storage contracts.
  • Defence in customs proceedings.
  • Claims for breach of delivery terms.

Marine and transport insurance

  • Review of marine, air and land policies.
  • Advice on specific coverage.
  • Management of claims and disputes with insurers.

Civil liability and claims

  • Claims against shipping companies, airlines and logistics operators.
  • Liability for damage at port terminals.
  • Defence against abusive claims.

Litigation and international arbitration

  • Representation in national and international courts.
  • Maritime arbitration in London, Madrid or Santo Domingo.
  • Mediation in disputes between shipping companies, operators and insurers.

Public law in the maritime and transport sector

In addition to private practice, ISLAW is an expert in all public law issues affecting the sector:

  • Port concessions and administrative licences.
  • Penalty proceedings for maritime, customs or transport infringements.
  • Air and maritime transport regulation.
  • Public procurement related to ports and airports.
  • Defence in proceedings before national and international regulatory authorities.

This knowledge allows us to offer our clients comprehensive defence against the administration and ensure regulatory compliance in complex operations.

A multidisciplinary approach

Our team combines maritime and transport law with other areas:

  • Commercial and corporate law.
  • Maritime and aviation labour law.
  • Tax and customs law.
  • International trade and arbitration.

Experience and sectors served

We have advised clients on:

  • Maritime transport of goods and passengers.
  • Port concessions and management.
  • Export and import of agro-industrial products.
  • International logistics and distribution.
  • Air and land transport.
  • Maritime insurance and civil liability.

Why choose ISLAW for maritime and transport law?

  • Over 15 years of experience in the sector.
  • Presence in Spain and the Dominican Republic, with an international outlook.
  • Up-to-date knowledge of conventions such as the Hague-Visby Rules, the Hamburg Convention and the Rotterdam Convention.
  • Ability to represent clients in complex litigation and international arbitration.
  • Comprehensive coverage of all modes of transport: sea, air and land.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What regulations govern international maritime transport?

Maritime transport is governed by conventions such as the Hague-Visby Rules (1924), the Hamburg Convention (1978) and the Rotterdam Convention (2009), in addition to national regulations. ISLAW advises on their application and on the drafting of contracts.

When should I hire legal advice on transport matters?

Before signing charter, international sales or insurance contracts. An advance legal review prevents unfair terms and clarifies responsibilities.

What risks does marine and transport insurance cover?

Loss, damage or delay of goods, as well as crew and vessel risks. ISLAW advises on policy negotiations and claims against insurers.

What happens if my goods arrive damaged?

The shipper may file a claim with the shipping company, airline or land carrier, depending on the applicable agreement. ISLAW manages the claim and negotiates compensation.

¿ISLAW ofrece representación en arbitraje internacional?

Yes. Our team has experience in maritime arbitration in London, Madrid and Santo Domingo, which is a faster and more specialised route than the ordinary courts.

Do you require legal advice on maritime, port or transport law?

At ISLAW, we offer you a team of lawyers who are experts in contracts, insurance, international trade, and litigation.
Contact us today and secure specialised legal support for all your logistics, maritime, and transport operations in Spain and the Dominican Republic.