https://completemarkets.com/company/isr-insurance/International-Special-Risks/
ISR is one of the oldest and largest marine insurance brokerage firms in the United States. At International Special Risks we focus exclusively on marine insurance and provide retail agents and brokers with access to top-rated carriers in both the U.S. and London markets. Our team of experienced marine insurance professionals makes it easier for you to place and service marine accounts, no matter how specialized the exposure.
We are the specialists in Marine Insurance!
Overview of the Program from International Special Risks
Whether your client operates a marina, builds vessels, or transports cargo across international waters, ISR is a wholesale partner that helps you place and market marine business. We offer tailored solutions across hull & machinery, marine liability (including marina operators' legal liability), cargo, P&I exposures, and other marine-specific coverages. ISR handles the marketing and placement work, so you can focus on growing and retaining your marine accounts—even if marine insurance isn’t your specialty.
We also offer dedicated in-house marine claims support to help expedite resolution and get your clients back to business quickly. Our combination of specialist underwriting relationships and claims expertise is designed to reduce friction on complex marine losses.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
ISR works with a broad range of marine-related risks, including:
• Marine Contractors
• Diving Contractors
• Ferries
• Boat Builders
• Gaming Vessels
• Stevedores
• Shipyards
• Marinas
• Excursion Vessels
• Dredging Contractors
• High-Valued Yachts
• Marine Product Manufacturers
• Port Authorities
• Cargo Vessels
• Marine Terminals
• Yacht Clubs
• Exporters/Importers
• Barge and Tug Operators
• Boat Dealers
• Oceanographic Vessels
• Six-Pack Vessels
ISR can place small, family-owned marinas through large commercial shipyards and international cargo operators. Typical fits include accounts with clear marine operations, documented maintenance programs, and commercial or recreational vessels scheduled on the program. Less-standard or highly unusual exposures should be discussed up front — we’ll advise whether they fit our appetite or require a special market approach.
Examples you might submit:
A regional ferry operator with multiple vessels seeking liability and hull coverage for scheduled passenger runs.
A waterfront boatyard that needs marina operators' legal liability, property, and pollution liability coverage for repair and storage operations.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
Through ISR, you gain access to A.M. Best–rated carriers in both the U.S. and London markets. Key advantages include:
Comprehensive marine programs tailored to class of business and risk profile
Custom wordings available for hull & machinery, P&I, cargo, marina operators' liability, and pollution exposures
Competitive pricing from admitted and non-admitted markets, when appropriate
Efficient, experienced in-house marine claims handling and support
Dedicated marketing and placement service to save you time
We understand the unique loss exposures in marine operations — from shoreline pollution to vessel damage and cargo claims — and structure placements to address those specific risks.
Underwriting Notes and Minimum Premiums
ISR’s underwriting process is designed for fast turnaround while ensuring appropriate carrier placement. We work with both admitted and non-admitted markets, depending on state regulations and the nature of the risk. Minimum premiums and retentions vary by class and carrier; contact ISR for guidance on expected minimums and the most efficient placement strategy for your submission.
Territories and Availability
Our marine insurance solutions are available across most U.S. states, including coastal and inland markets. Coverage is available in the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, DC. Availability and admitted status may vary by state and coverage line.
Why Work With International Special Risks?
ISR is a dedicated marine specialist with decades of market presence and established carrier relationships. Our exclusive focus on marine business gives you access to markets and wordings that generalist wholesalers may not offer. We combine underwriting expertise, tailored placement strategies, and in-house claims service to help you place and retain marine accounts with confidence.
If you're ready to place a marine account or want a quick review of a submission, contact us today. One of our specialists will respond within one business day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?We specialize in a wide range of marine-related businesses, including marinas, shipyards, diving contractors, ferry operators, and cargo vessel owners.
Do you work with admitted or non-admitted carriers?We offer access to both admitted and non-admitted markets. Placement depends on the state, client needs, and the specific class of marine risk.
Can you help with claims handling?Yes. ISR provides dedicated in-house marine claims specialists who work to manage and expedite claims for your clients.
What is the turnaround time for quotes?We strive for fast responses. In most cases we reply within one business day, though complex accounts may require additional information or time.
Is this program available in my state?Our marine solutions are available in nearly all U.S. states, including coastal and inland regions. Contact ISR to confirm availability and admitted status for your specific state.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.