SHIPPING &
In a sector governed by international rules, high-value assets, and tight timelines, maritime legal matters require speed, precision, and deep industry knowledge. We’re here to help you navigate confidently through the complexities of shipping and maritime law.
Shipping & Maritime Law Services
Our team is geared to meet the real world needs of vessel and cargo owners, operators and insurers. From supply chain to port to open sea, we are with you at every stage.
Admiralty Disputes
- Arrests of Vessels & Cargo
- Collision Claims
- Salvage & Towage
Carriage & Cargo
- Contracts of Carriage
- Cargo Damage Claims
- Demurrage
- Freight Disputes
Marine Insurance
- Insurance Disputes
- Policy Reviews
- Coverage Disputes
- Hull & Machinery Claims
- P&I Matters
Supply Chain Disputes
- Contractual Disputes
- Supply Chain Disputes
- Procurement Conflicts
- Logistics Contracts
- Delivery Delays
- Supplier Breaches
Regulatory Compliance
- Policy, Contractual & Tender Reviews
- Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
- Port State Control
- IMO & Local Regulations
Port Investigations
- Casualty Investigations
- Port Investigations
- Incident Reporting
- Crew Conduct
- Authority Liaison
Shipping & Maritime Law Experts
B.A., LL.B., LL.M.
Anisa Govender is a director and head of our maritime department with over 25 years’ experience. She holds BA LLB LLM (Maritime Law) degrees from the University of Natal and has extensive experience in several aspects of shipping law, particularly ship arrests, admiralty litigation, emergency marine casualty response, regulatory and general admiralty advice, ship and cargo sale and purchase. She has also chaired several boards of inquiry arising from incidents at the ports and is heavily involved in litigation arising from loss of or damage to cargo and/or vessels and issues arising from procurement of port equipment.
Anisa is a member of the Maritime Law Association, of which she is the past national secretary and current Vice – President, the Durban Marine Insurance Forum, the South African Maritime Professionals Forum and an associate member of the Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers, for whom she has also served as a tutor for Legal Principles and Shipping Law. She previously served as the representative of the Maritime Law Association on the eThekwini Maritime Cluster and is currently a board member and director of SAMTRA (South Africa Maritime Training Academy) and WISTA SA (Women’s International Shipping and Trade Association).
Practice Areas: Shipping and Maritime Law | Litigation
LL.B.
Tanatswa attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal where she obtained her Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) (Cum Laude) in 2023. Her areas of interest include Corporate law, Maritime- and Shipping Law as well as Litigation. Tanatswa was admitted as a Legal Practitioner of the High Court in 2026.
Practice Areas: Shipping and Maritime Law | Litigation
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Shipping & Maritime Law
With deep sector insight and a practical, solutions-driven approach, we provide dependable guidance you can count on – whether you’re docked, en route, or in dispute.
Expert Guidance
Trusted Partnership
Proactive Solutions
Reliable Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to ask your own questions? Speak to our experts for assistance.
What are my options if cargo is damaged during transit?
You may be able to claim against the carrier or their insurer, depending on the terms of the contract of carriage and the cause of damage. Time limits for claims are strict, so early legal advice is recommended.
How do I respond to a vessel detention or port investigation?
It’s important to act quickly and engage with authorities while protecting your legal position. Legal representation can assist with resolving regulatory issues and negotiating release terms.
Who is responsible for environmental compliance in shipping operations?
Responsibility may rest with the shipowner, charterer, operator, or crew, depending on the situation. Non-compliance can result in fines, detentions, or reputational damage.
What legal obligations apply under international maritime conventions?
Obligations vary by flag state and include safety, pollution control, and crew welfare standards. Common frameworks include SOLAS, MARPOL, and the Hague-Visby Rules.