Ships and cargo have always faced perils of the sea. Marine insurance covers loss or damage to vessels, cargo, and related interests arising from maritime risks. It is one of the oldest forms of insurance and still uses specialized vocabulary and practices.

Hull insurance protects the ship itself; cargo insurance protects goods in transit. Liability coverages address collision, pollution, and protection-and-indemnity exposures. Inland marine extends similar concepts to goods in transit on land and to certain mobile equipment. Policies may be voyage-based or open covers for ongoing shipments.

Underwriting considers the vessel’s class, the route, the nature of the cargo, and the experience of the operators. Claims can involve general average, salvage, and complex jurisdictional issues. Despite modern navigation and safety standards, the fundamental uncertainties of waterborne transport keep marine insurance essential.

• Coverage for ships, cargo, and maritime liability
• Includes hull, cargo, and P&I type protections
• Extends to inland transit in many markets
• Specialized wording and claims practices