John Strange

Consultant

John is a consultant in the marine, trade and aviation team, and is based in the London office. He has in-depth experience of a range of maritime problems, particularly those affecting the cruise and ferry industries, superyachts and marine leisure, and the offshore industry.

A member of the firm’s 24/7 global response team, John regularly advises shipowners, P&I clubs and underwriters on issues involving collision, salvage and insurance disputes. He also advises clients in respect of marine personal injury and fatality incidents, for which he is regarded as a market leader.

I work closely with shipowners, insurers and operators to resolve complex maritime issues swiftly and effectively. My clients value my practical advice and calm approach in high-pressure situations, whether dealing with collisions, investigations or major casualties across the cruise, ferry and offshore sectors.

John Strange, Consultant

With the increase in criminal sanctions in recent years, John has developed a particular expertise in guiding clients through investigations by the MAIB and HSE and in defending prosecutions by the MCA Enforcement Unit and the police. He speaks fluent French, holds the Diplôme Supérieur de Droit et de Français des Affaires, and is admitted to the Paris Bar.

Recent work highlights

Catastrophic Egyptian ferry loss

Representing the owners and P&I club in the investigation into the loss of the ferry, the Al Salam Boccaccio 98, that foundered in the Red Sea with the loss of 1,040 lives, the largest peacetime marine casualty outside the Far East.

Injury and breach of contract claims

Assisting charterers and their P&I Club in pursuing claims against the owners arising from multiple injuries and breach of contract claims brought by passengers following the complete immobilisation of a passenger vessel when struck by a Mediterranean wave during heavy weather.

Fatal explosion during cargo discharge

Helping the owners of a product tanker to deal with the subsequent investigation by the MAIB, inquest and civil claims following an explosion during cargo discharge that resulted in loss of life.

Loss of cattle carrier in Mediterranean

Acting for a P&I club following the loss of a cattle carrier that foundered in the Mediterranean with the loss of 70 lives and 35,000 head of cattle.

Destruction of sailing yacht

Advising underwriters in France and the UK following the loss of the VOR 70 sailing yacht which was totally destroyed by fire.