We are aware of the increase in the number of our entered vessels which deviate for crew changes due to the COVID-19 restrictions.

Deviations may deprive shipowners of the right to rely on defences or rights of limitation under the Hague or Hague-Visby Rules when they confront cargo claims. Such additional cargo liabilities are excluded from standard P&I cover under Rule 29.2(2), and depending on the degree of a particular deviation, Members may be required to take out additional insurance, i.e. Special Cover for Carrier’s Liability to Cargo.

However, given the unusual circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are providing Special Cover for Carrier’s Liability to Cargo, without additional premium, to all our entered Ocean-going vessels which will deviate for crew changes due to the COVID-19 restrictions (excluding those vessels without cargo liability cover under Rule 29 and fixed premium entries).

If you have to deviate your vessel for a crew change, please contact your usual underwriting contact in advance, and also please ask us if you have any questions on this cover.