July 01, 2023.
Legal advisory on ferry acquisition for Kamenari–Lepetane ferry line

Source: Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management of Montenegro
ABACO, Montenegro’s sole law firm exclusively dedicated to maritime law, had the distinct privilege of representing the Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management of Montenegro in all legal matters pertaining to the acquisition of seven double-ended ferries intended for operation along the Kamenari–Lepetane ferry line.
The acquisition, conducted through a public procurement procedure, resulted in the successful purchase of seven vessels with a total transaction value exceeding EUR 11 million.
ABACO provided comprehensive legal advisory and representation throughout all phases of the procurement, delivery, and registration process, including but not limited to:
- Conducting negotiations with sellers on all legal and commercial aspects of the sale and purchase transactions;
- Reviewing contractual documentation and liaising with relevant registries to ensure that each vessel was acquired free and clear of any liens, encumbrances, claims, mortgages, or other legal burdens;
- Drafting and reviewing the Sale and Purchase Agreements;
- Representing the Public Enterprise during the delivery and acceptance of the vessels;
- Handling the registration of ownership before the Commercial Court of Montenegro and the Harbour Master’s Office, which maintains the official register of ships.
ABACO’s maritime law practice is distinguished by its extensive experience in advising and representing clients in ship sale and purchase transactions. Our expertise spans a wide range of vessel types—from pleasure yachts and commercial sea-going vessels to superyachts and floating structures within the shipbuilding industry. The firm has also advised on numerous transactions involving port infrastructure and shipping assets.
We remain committed to delivering premier legal services in the maritime sector, with a particular focus on complex transactions involving vessels, ports, and coastal infrastructure.