The 60-second version
Pilotage liability insurance covers licensed pilot negligence during vessel movement — returning NRIs entering port pilotage need cover alongside P&I and towage policies.
Bind pilotage liability before first act — port tariff indemnity does not replace pilot E&O
Pilotage liability insurance responds when navigation error causes berth damage, grounding, or collision during pilotage act.
Returning NRIs obtaining DGS pilot licence for Mumbai, JNPT, or Chennai need dedicated pilotage cover alongside employer WC.
Towage lane: towage guide for tug assist layer.
Pilot stack
| Policy | Covers | Does not cover |
|---|---|---|
| Pilotage liability | Navigation error | Cargo shortage |
| Towage | Tug assist error | Pilot advice dispute |
| P&I | Shipowner injury | Pilot negligence |
| Port liability | Terminal injury | Vessel grounding |
Purchase flow
Licence scope
Port + vessel size.
Sum insured
Per act + annual agg.
Get quotes
3+ marine insurers.
Bind policy
Before first pilotage.
Port notice
Insurance cert to harbour master.
Stack
Pilotage kit
- DGS licence.
- Port approval.
- Policy schedule.
- WC cert.
- Claim hotline.
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VLCC calls
Large tanker pilotage needs higher sub-limit — declare max LOA at quote.
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vs P&I?
P&I covers shipowner claims; pilotage covers licensed pilot navigation negligence.
Compulsory?
Major ports require proof of cover at licence renewal — bind before first act.
GST?
18% GST on marine insurance premium.
Claim?
Notify within 24h — preserve VDR and pilot transfer records.
Multi-port?
Declare all licensed ports in schedule — not just home port.
Delay demurrage?
Some policies cover pilot-delay demurrage — verify extension.
You've done the research. Now get the plan.
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