IUMI: More infrastructure needed to insure Arctic sailings

Infrastructure support is required to facilitate the provision of adequate insurance for the high Arctic as a trade route, fishing ground and potential tourist destination according to the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI).

With changes in ice conditions making the Arctic route navigable, Maersk is currently carrying out a trial sailing.

Helle Hammer, the IUMI’s policy forum chair, said: “The marine insurance sector, like all sectors, wants to see enhanced safety for ships operating in Arctic waters. We would strongly encourage an improved infrastructure to provide the required level of search & rescue capacity alongside suitable places of refuge.