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Rabomizo Law Firm

International legal practice with a Ukrainian foundation

Vessel registration and flag matters

Vessel registration defines the legal framework for ownership, operation and taxation

Mistakes at this stage may limit the use of the vessel, create regulatory barriers or result in additional costs over time. We guide clients through each stage of the process, helping to identify and address regulatory risks in advance, before the vessel enters operation. This ensures a legally robust ownership structure aligned with the intended use of the vessel.

Flag Selection

We select the flag state based on trading area, intended use (commercial or private) and tax model

Ownership Structure

We structure ownership either directly or through a dedicated corporate vehicle.

Vessel Registration

We register or reflag the vessel: reserve the name, arrange provisional and permanent registration, and obtain the certificate of registry.

Local Registration (Ukraine)

Where required, we register the vessel in the State Ship Register or Ship Book of Ukraine and record the change of ownership.

Bareboat Registration

We arrange bareboat charter registration and parallel registration where permitted.

Mortgages & Encumbrances

We register or discharge maritime mortgages and encumbrances, verify clean title, and provide legal support for sale and purchase transactions — including agreement drafting, transfer and delivery documentation.

Class & Certificates

We coordinate surveys and the preparation of key vessel certificates: tonnage, load line, environmental and safety certificates, and minimum safe manning documents.

Radio Licensing

We obtain the ship radio station licence, call sign and station identifier, and register emergency beacons.

Registry Updates

We update registry records, including changes to vessel name, port of registry and technical particulars.

Deregistration

Handle vessel deregistration and obtain deletion certificates and confirmation of no encumbrances.

Yacht Status & Compliance

We advise on yacht status (private or commercial), VAT and operational requirements.

Marinas & Charter

We support charter permits and agreements with marinas and shipyards.

Our Approach

Deep knowledge of law and the industry

Rabomizo works with the norms of international maritime law and national maritime codes of various jurisdictions, grounded in a deep understanding of shipping operations and the commercial realities of the industry.

Experience in dispute resolution in international jurisdictions

We have represented clients in London, Greece, Turkey, Ukraine, Switzerland, Oman and other jurisdictions.

Rapid response in crisis situations

We promptly engage in communication with the parties involved, prepare well-grounded responses and develop a defence and negotiation strategy at any stage of the process.

Understanding of shipping operations

Our solutions take into account not only legal aspects but also the practical side of a shipowner’s or operator’s business. Clients do not need to spend time explaining – we understand the complexity of maritime processes and provide full support.

About us

Rabomizo law firm advises businesses engaged in transport and international trade, operating where assets, goods and services are crossing borders and changing the legal regimes. We support our clients in structuring solid business agreements, managing the risks and making decisions within complex multi-jurisdictional frameworks.

If the claims, delays, sanctions, restrictions, or disputes arise, we develop and implement a legal strategy, representing clients across the jurisdictions and legal systems. Our work combines sector knowledge with a clear understanding of the international regulatory environment.

We do not propose standardised solutions. We analyse the risks, assess the legal and commercial exposure, and provide clear, commercially grounded advice in cross-border matters.

Rapid response

Full transparency in collaboration

Minimisation of financial and reputational risks

Clear and predictable legal strategy

Our team

Leading Experts

nadiya-isikova2

Nadiya Isikova

Partner, Advocate, Solicitor
Denys Rabomizo

Denys Rabomizo

Partner, Advocate
Valentyna

Valentyna Babak

Managing Director, Advocate
Berezovskiy3

Vasyl Berezovskyi

Counsel & Master Mariner
Dr. Nataliia Hendel (600x800)

Dr. Nataliia Hendel

Counsel
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Vessel registration and flag matters

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