Protection & Indemnity (P&I)

Our core mutual cover, protecting shipowners against third-party liabilities, including crew, cargo, collision, pollution, and wreck removal.

Overview

Protection & Indemnity (P&I) sits at the centre of maritime risk management, helping you manage the responsibilities that come with global shipping. From everyday issues to major incidents, we provide the protection, expertise and support needed to handle complex risks and keep operations running smoothly.

Who and what we cover

P&I covers a wide range of third-party risks resulting from global shipping operations across a multitude of sectors and vessel types – from international trading fleets to regional and specialist operations.

Unlike hull and machinery insurance, which covers physical damage to the ship, P&I focuses on liabilities to other people, property and the environment.

These can include:

  • Injury, illness or death of crew or passengers

  • Loss of or damage to cargo

  • Damage to other ships, property or port infrastructure

  • Pollution and environmental damage

  • Wreck removal and related costs

  • Other third-party risks

Key features and benefits

  • Cover tailored to your operations

Build protection around your ships, operations and crew for cover that matches your business.

  • High levels of financial protection

Cover for a wide range of third-party claims, including crew injury or illness, cargo damage, pollution and damage to other ships or property.

  • Expert claims and legal support

Our experienced claims and legal specialists guide you through incidents, disputes and investigations.

  • Global support network

Access to trusted worldwide correspondents, lawyers and surveyors, providing local expertise wherever you are.

  • Loss prevention guidance

Practical advice and support to help minimise risks and prevent onboard and onshore incidents.

  • Responsive, member-focused service

Speak to experienced teams who understand your business for clear, practical support when you need it.

What your cover includes

P&I insurance typically covers a wide range of liabilities, but there are limits and exclusions depending on the type of risk, the terms of entry and each claim’s specific circumstances, including:

  • Members' responsibilities

You must meet certain legal and operational requirements before cover applies.

  • Club Rules and agreed terms

Cover applies according to our Rules and the terms agreed when a ship is insured.

  • Financial limits for certain risks

Some claims are subject to specific limits depending on the nature of the incident or operation.

  • Risks covered elsewhere

Some risks are usually insured separately, such as Hull & Machinery, War or certain specialist activities.

Experts in P&I cover

Our underwriting, claims, legal and loss prevention specialists bring deep experience of the shipping industry for practical support at every stage.

With teams in London, Hong Kong, Piraeus, Limassol, Seoul and Shanghai, and a trusted global network of local correspondents, we’re available wherever and whenever you need us.

Loss and incident handling

When an incident happens, getting early personal support can make all the difference. You can contact us straight away for guidance.

You’ll speak directly to experienced people who understand your business and can help you decide what to do next  - without unnecessary delays or handovers.

We’ll work with you to coordinate the response, bringing in local experts, surveyors, or specialist legal support where needed, so you stay in control at all times and can move forward with clarity.

Claims handling

When you make a claim, our claims team will guide you through the entire claims process and support you from start to finish. Our focus is on resolving claims quickly and fairly, so you can focus on your operations.