Risk & markets
P&I (Protection & Indemnity) club
A mutual association that covers a shipowner's third-party liabilities.
What is P&I (Protection & Indemnity) club in shipping?
A non-profit mutual insurer, owned by its shipowner members, that covers liabilities not handled by hull-and-machinery cover — crew injury and illness, cargo loss or damage, pollution, collision liability, wreck removal and repatriation. The major clubs belong to the International Group, which pools large claims among members.
Educational reference only — verify operational guidance with UKMTO, MSCHOA, your flag state, P&I club and legal counsel.
Related terms
- MLC 2006 — The 'seafarers' bill of rights' — minimum living and working standards at sea.
- Repatriation — The seafarer's right to be returned home at the employer's cost in defined circumstances.
- War-risk premium — Extra marine-insurance charge for sailing through a designated high-risk or war zone.