From its foundational roots in Valletta in the early 1900s to its current eminence, Ganado Advocates stands as a cornerstone of legal authority in Malta’s maritime realm. Over decades, the firm has been pivotal in sculpting Malta’s hard-earned reputation as a dependable international hub for shipping, finance, and maritime legislative innovation.
In an industry defined by its multifaceted demands, Ganado Advocates combines deep heritage, specialised expertise, and a robust team to deliver comprehensive legal guidance that meets the highest expectations of the maritime sector.
The growth of the Malta international ship register to one of the largest flags in the world evolved an imperative need amongst shipowners for a national association international in nature that could effectively represent their views and interests at national, regional and international levels.
Tracing its origins to Valletta’s early 20th-century legal traditions, Ganado Advocates was born from a lineage of legal excellence – starting with Luigi Ganado and carried forward by his descendants.
As the firm expanded, it distinguished itself through visionary leadership and commitment to reform, contributing significantly to Malta’s maritime, banking, aviation, and investment services legal frameworks.
Tracing its origins to Valletta’s early 20th-century legal traditions, Ganado Advocates was born from a lineage of legal excellence
With a team now exceeding eighty lawyers and professionals, supported by dedicated administrative staff, Ganado Advocates remains one of Malta’s largest and most versatile law practices.
Stewards of Maritime Legislation and Advocacy
The firm’s engagement extends beyond client service into the shaping of Malta’s maritime legal landscape.
Daniel Aquilina, Partner heading the banking, ship finance, and aviation teams, has played a central role in Malta’s accession to the Cape Town Convention, the development of the Aircraft Registration Act, and the ongoing fine-tuning of aviation legislation for Transport Malta. Previously Secretary of the Malta Maritime Law Association (MMLA) and a Council Member of the Maritime Legislative Advisory Council, Dr Aquilina served as Chairman of Malta Marittima Agency – driving public‑private cooperation in maritime services.
Matthew Attard, Senior Associate with over fifteen years at the firm, has been serving as President of the MMLA since his having been elected in December 2022.
Holding advanced degrees in international maritime law, he is intimately involved in shipping registration, vessel sales and acquisitions, and financing for major clients and financial institutions.
Endorsements Reflect Excellence
Legal publications consistently affirm Ganado Advocates’ market-leading strength. Legal500 highlights the firm as arguably “the best team to work with in shipping in Malta,” commending its scale, resources, and responsiveness.
Clients emphasise the team’s knowledge and collaborative spirit. Chambers Europe ranks the firm in Band1 for Shipping in Malta, pointing to its mastery in ship finance, vessel transactions, registration, mortgages, security interests, and ship arrest matters.
Conclusion: Anchoring Future Seas, Today
From its storied origins in Valletta to its current status as a maritime law powerhouse, Ganado Advocates embodies the perfect blend of legacy, capability, and forward‑looking leadership.
Its broad-based team delivers seamless solutions in shipping law, finance, registration, legislative reform, and sector advocacy – combining academic rigour with unmatched commercial insight.
Whether navigating vessel transactions, advising on regulatory change, or steering industry-wide conversations, Ganado Advocates stands unwaveringly at the helm, shaping Malta’s maritime future with clarity, conviction, and excellence.
