Blank Rome's maritime practice has been guiding the fortunes of leading maritime companies for more than 30 years.  Our practice is recognized nationally and internationally for its ability to maneuver through the issues that affect coastal and international maritime commerce.  Members of the practice include several former U.S. Coast Guard officers and specialists in security, safety, and environmental compliance and liability issues. 

On behalf of clients in the maritime industry, we have a proven track record of success handling government relations issues such as:

• environmental compliance
• government financing programs
• port security
• customs and border protection

We represent all corners of the maritime industry. We understand the industry and the interplay between law and policy.  From a simple phone call to multifaceted representation before Congress and federal agencies, we keep our clients’ interests secure in Washington’s often rough political waters.  We serve as advisors and advocates, helping clients anticipate and take advantage of the issues and opportunities that affect the maritime industry.

In what can be often turbulent waters in Washington, DC, our team helps navigate the legislative and political process for numerous port and maritime interests. We have also worked with industry groups, Congress and the Executive Branch to secure funding for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration's "PORTS" program and the next-generation customs automation system.

On behalf of our maritime and port clients, we have successfully opposed new fees and taxes on the industry, including repeated efforts to impose new customs fees, navigation services fees, and harbor services fees. We have a comprehensive understanding of international, federal, and state safety and environmental regimes governing ocean transportation.

We maintain top-level relationships with the Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Maritime Administration, Federal Maritime Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Customs Service, Military Sealift Command, Office of Foreign Assets Control, and various regional port authorities.