The Steamship Podcast
The Steamship Podcast, your destination for navigating the waves of the maritime industry. Join us as we discuss the latest trends, innovations and challenges shaping the world of ships, ports, logistics, and beyond.
Hatch Cover Weathertightness
We explore key questions from our recent Risk Alert on Hatch Cover Weathertightness.
Why does this matter?
Effective hatch cover integrity remains one of the first lines of defence against cargo damage. Even minor defects can allow water ingress, leading to costly claims, delays and operational disruption.
In this episode, we break down:
- What hatch covers are and why they are critical to cargo safety
- The importance of maintaining weathertight integrity
- Common issues that can lead to water ingress
- Why testing – particularly ultrasonic testing – is essential
- Practical steps to reduce the risk of cargo wetting claims
Through a clear Q&A format, the podcast provides practical insights for operators and crew, reinforcing the importance of proactive maintenance, inspection and testing in supporting safe cargo operations.
Strait of Hormuz: Sanctions Considerations
The Strait of Hormuz continues to present complex and evolving risks for shipowners and operators — not only from a security perspective, but increasingly from a sanctions and compliance standpoint.
We highlight key takeaways from our recent article on sanctions considerations, including:
- Reported transit requirements and associated payment demands
- The implications of OFAC FAQ 1249 and exposure under U.S., EU and UK regimes
- Recent developments in sanctions enforcement linked to Iranian activity
- The potential impact on Club cover for owners and charterers
Marine Fuel Availability: FONAR Friend?
Marine fuel availability is fast becoming a critical issue for owners and charterers — not just in terms of cost, but whether compliant fuel can actually be sourced, where and when it’s needed.
In this short podcast episode, we highlight the key themes from our latest article, including the impact of disruption through the Strait of Hormuz, pressure on voyage planning and seaworthiness, charterparty risk allocation, MARPOL compliance and the limits of FONARs, as well as the risks around deviation and slow steaming.
The key message is clear: fuel availability is no longer a remote risk and needs to be actively planned for.
Hull War Risks: Owners Cover for Physical Damage and P&I with Rupert Harris
Steamship Mutual provides P&I cover for owners. In addition the Club offers a range of ancillary products, including Hull War insurance covering physical damage to the Hull as well as primary P&I from War perils. Recent events in Ukraine and the Red Sea mean it is more important than ever for Members to understand the scope of cover they have for War Risks.
We are joined today by Rupert Harris. Rupert is the CEO of Steamship Mutual Europe, and the Club’s Head of Reinsurance.
War Risks: Charterers' Cover with Rupert Harris
Steamship Mutual provides P&I cover for charterers. In addition the Club offers a range of ancillary products, including War cover. Recent events in Ukraine and the Red Sea mean it is more important than ever for Members to understand the scope of cover they have for War Risks.
We are joined today by Rupert Harris. Rupert is the CEO of Steamship Mutual Europe, one of the Club’s Underwriting Directors and also the Club’s Head of Reinsurance.
A conversation on USTR FAQs
Important Update for Shipowner-Operators Trading to the U.S.
With the upcoming introduction of U.S. port tariffs targeting Chinese owned/operated and built vessels, the team at @Steamship Mutual has been actively responding to the key questions and concerns raised by our Members.
This is a rapidly evolving regulatory development, and we understand the potential operational and financial impacts it may have on calls to U.S. ports.
To support our Members and industry partners, we’ve created a podcast and dedicated page where you’ll find:
• A summary of the proposed tariff changes
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Ongoing updates as the situation develops
Stay informed and follow the page for real-time insights and guidance: Steamship Mutual - U.S. Tariffs & Trade
Reporting highlights from the Club Board Meeting
Following the Club Circular regarding Financial Updates and the 2025 Renewal, Jonathan Andrews reports the highlights from the Club Board meeting in Miami.
When the Anchor drops too far with Paul Brewer
This episode centres on Jesse Henson, a worker at a coal-fired power plant in Kansas, who tragically lost his life due to a failed pressure relief valve. Jesse's widow, Kelli Most, pursued claims against Team Industrial Services and Westar Energy, initially resulting in a $222 million award.
We are joined today by Paul Brewer, Paul is the Claims Director of Steamship Mutual.
