Maritime Law
Legal Advice and Representation.
Expert counsel across all aspects of yacht and superyacht ownership, sale, purchase, finance, dispute resolution, insurance and management.
Our team provides legal advice and practical guidance in all aspects of yacht and superyacht ownership, sale, purchase, finance, dispute resolution, insurance and management.
We advise and represent a variety of participants in the industry and our clients include owners, managers, agents, underwriters, P&I clubs, brokers, builders, yards and marinas.
The team are experienced in advising on matters ranging from superyachts and private pleasure crafts and has a wealth of experience advising on yachting and maritime matters. We have extensive sailing and sea experience and an in-depth commercial and practical knowledge of the industry. Support is provided by our commercial, employment and ship finance groups.
Practice Areas
Our Yachting Practice Areas
- Dispute Resolution
- Insurance
- Ship and Yacht Building and Repair Disputes
- Ship & Yacht Finance
- Ownership
- Chartering
- Casualty Response
Our international presence and network provides access to many jurisdictions.
Who We Advise
Our Clients
- Yacht underwriters
- P&I Clubs
- Lloyd's syndicates
- Brokers
- Manufacturers
- Yacht owners
- Managers and agents
- Yards and Marinas
- Marine surveyors
- Project managers
- Banks
Greece-Specific Services
Greek Flag, MCPY & Foreign Owner Services
Vlamis specialises in helping foreign yacht owners establish the correct legal structure for owning and operating a vessel in Greece. This includes:
- Greek flag registration for EU and non-EU flagged vessels
- MCPY (NEPA) company formation: Greek commercial vessel companies that allow yacht owners to operate commercially in Greece with favourable tax treatment
- Transit log and cruising permit applications for foreign-flagged vessels
- Charter licence applications and compliance with Greek maritime tourism law
- Branch establishment for foreign shipping companies operating in Greece
- Purchase contracts and due diligence for yacht acquisitions in Greece
MCPY companies are tax-free in Greece under certain conditions. Our network includes lawyers and accountants with over 25 years of collective experience in Greek maritime law. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Good to Know
Yacht Legal Services Greece FAQs
What legal structure should a foreign yacht owner use in Greece?
Most foreign owners operating commercially in Greece establish an MCPY company (Monoprosopi Commercial Pleasure Yacht company): a Greek legal structure specifically designed for vessel ownership and charter operations. Under certain conditions MCPY companies are tax-free in Greece. Vlamis can arrange full MCPY formation through our legal and accounting network.
Do I need a charter licence to rent out my yacht in Greece?
Yes. All commercial charter operations in Greek waters require a charter licence issued by the Greek Merchant Marine. The requirements vary depending on the vessel's flag, size and ownership structure. Vlamis handles charter licence applications and ensures ongoing compliance with Greek maritime tourism law for all vessels under our management.
Can Vlamis help with a yacht purchase contract in Greece?
Yes. Our legal team advises on yacht purchase and sale contracts, pre-purchase due diligence, VAT status verification, outstanding liens and flag state transfer. We have experience with vessels from Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom and can advise on cross-border transactions.