Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Shipping - South Africa
What the Team is Known For
Deneys operates a prominent shipping and ports practice that enjoys an enviable reputation for its insurance and cargo interests work. The team is well versed in the handling of casualties, judicial sales, issues stemming from declarations of general average, and debt and security enforcement, as well as advising on commercial contracts for ferry services and ship builders. The drafting of marine insurance policies is a further notable specialism. In March 2026 the firm once again became independent, after more than a decade operating as Norton Rose South Africa.
Strengths
Deneys provides an excellent, proactive and knowledgeable service. The team has expertise combined with a commercial approach.
Its lawyers are easily available and very educated around the various topics.
I rate the law firm's ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters very highly and it has a very high standard of work in this regard.
Work Highlights
Deneys advised Bryte Insurance on an arbitration mandate regarding a cargo of fertiliser which was lost when the vessel 'Ultra Galaxy' broke up as a result of bad weather.
Notable practitioners
Andrew Robinson is held in high regard in South Africa as one of the jurisdiction's foremost shipping experts, with his insurance work in the space being of particular note. He is additionally sought out for his advice on legislative changes and charter party-related mandates.
His experience and skill set are vast. He is like a walking dictionary.
Andrew Robinson is highly specialised and good at what he does.
Malcolm Hartwell heads the shipping team from the law firm's Durban office. He has accumulated a wealth of experience in the space handling casualty and recovery mandates, as well as arrests, groundings, collisions and commercial transactions.
Nick Veldman is recognised for his expertise in shipping mandates and disputes. He is particularly well placed to advise on damage claims.
