Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Additional cover for cargo liabilities arising from deviations for crew changes We are aware of the increase in the number of our entered vessels which deviate for crew changes due to the COVID-19 restrictions.   Deviations may deprive shipowners of the right to rely on defences or rights of limitation under the Hague or Hague-Visby Rules when they confront cargo claims. Such additional cargo liabilities are excluded from standard P&I cover under Rule 29.2(2), and depending on the degree of a particular deviation, Members may be required to take out additional insurance, i.e. Special Cover for Carrier’s Liability to Cargo.   However, given the unusual circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are providing Special Cover for Carrier’s Liability to Cargo, without additional premium, to all our entered Ocean-going vessels which will deviate for crew changes due to the COVID-19 restrictions (excluding those vessels without cargo liability cover under Rule 29 and fixed premium entries).   If you have to deviate your vessel for a crew change, please contact your usual underwriting contact in advance, and also please ask us if you have any questions on this cover.