The construction phase of vessels remains one of the most concentrated and complex areas of risk in the shipping sector, with exposures spanning both hull & machinery and P&I liabilities. This session examines the key challenges facing shipowners, builders and insurers across modern shipbuilding projects, including traditional vessels, offshore units, cruise ships and naval builds.

Speakers will explore heightened H&M exposures such as fire, machinery failure, launching incidents and delays caused by labour or supply chain disruptions, alongside P&I liability risks including crew injury, third-party damage and contractual obligations during construction. Emerging risks associated with advanced technologies, hybrid and alternative fuel systems and sophisticated onboard electronics will also be considered.

The discussion will cover capacity constraints, complex policy wordings, valuation challenges and evolving claims trends, providing practical guidance on mitigating losses during construction, managing warranty and liability exposures and coordinating effectively with shipyards and insurers to ensure robust coverage from keel laying through to final delivery.