In this iPMI Global Maritime Intelligence Article we outline the massive financial crisis in the maritime industry following a military strike on the U.S. 5th Fleet in Bahrain. In response to heightened conflict, insurance underwriters are dramatically increasing premiums, with costs for transiting the Strait of Hormuz surging to nearly ten times their previous rates. This volatility has forced insurers to cancel existing coverage agreements to reset prices, while simultaneously demanding mandatory notifications from any vessel entering the Persian Gulf.

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has so far offered a reminder to those in the industry of just how unreliable long-range forecasts can be on their own. Early outlooks pointed to another above-average year, yet the first half was surprisingly quiet and subdued. This was then followed, rather abruptly, by a burst of activity. Long pauses in storm formation gave way to short, furious spells of development: an unpredictable, stop-start rhythm that now feels increasingly familiar across the basin.

In this iPMI Global Insights Article we conduct an extensive analysis of the critical necessity for robust health insurance and comprehensive medical assistance within the high-risk offshore oil and gas and maritime sectors.

The briefing details the unique and elevated hazards found in these environments, such as exposure to physical extremes, hazardous substances, and psychosocial stressors like isolation, emphasizing that these factors necessitate specialized medical readiness. The text explains that health insurance provides financial protection and corporate risk mitigation for injuries or long-term occupational diseases, while dedicated medical assistance covers the practical delivery of care, including on-site readiness, telemedicine, and emergency evacuation logistics. Ultimately, the article argues that investing in these integrated health services is essential for operational continuity, regulatory compliance, and overall corporate resilience beyond simple financial compliance.

In this In Focus Martime and Marine article, Saleem Khan, Chief Data & Analytics Officer – Pole Star Global asks, Could the Strait of Hormuz Close Amid an Iran–Israel War?

Escalating military exchanges between Iran and Israel have spurred growing unease among shipping and energy markets over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz—an international chokepoint through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil flows daily. 

This article is written by Dr. Arthur Diskin, Global Director of Strategy at AP Companies — a leading provider of regional medical case management services supporting foreign tourists, expatriates, and seafarers in South America.

As a physician with decades of experience in maritime medicine and remote healthcare coordination, I appreciate that decision-makers in the cruise, commercial shipping, and maritime insurance industries recognize a critical need: a dedicated case management presence in South America. This continent presents a unique cluster of medical, logistical, regulatory, political, and infrastructural challenges that can significantly impact the health of guests and crew, as well as the financial and legal exposure of operators and insurers.

With the upcoming Maritime and Offshore iPMI Strategies Round table fast approaching, we explore the market opportunities, health insurance coverage requirements, market challenges and how the MLC 2006 is critical for seafarers worldwide.

The MLC 2006 is a comprehensive international legal standard established by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to ensure fair working and living conditions for seafarers worldwide. Its main aims include providing a "bill of rights" for seafarers, establishing minimum standards for their employment and social protection, and creating a level playing field for shipowners by setting consistent requirements across the global maritime industry. The significance lies in its wide ratification, making it very difficult for ships from non-ratifying countries to trade without potential delays due to increased inspections in ratifying ports.

Pole Star Global, a leading provider of maritime intelligence and compliance solutions, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with RightShip, the digital maritime platform providing expertise in safety, sustainability, and social responsibility practices. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in delivering comprehensive, integrated solutions that enhance safety, compliance, and sustainability across the global maritime industry.

HealthCare International Group (HCI Group) is proud to announce the launch of its new division, OceanCare, which will provide excellent value International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) plans specifically designed for marine crew and seafarers.

Medsea, an International SOS company and a leading provider of health services to thousands of seafarers worldwide, provides their top four commercial maritime health trends for the remainder of 2023.