Boat Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Marinex Underwriting Sets Sail in Australian Marine Insurance Market

New Agency Aims to Address Complex Marine Insurance Needs

Marinex Underwriting Sets Sail in Australian Marine Insurance Market?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

In a significant development for Australia's marine insurance sector, Rhodian Group has announced the launch of Marinex Underwriting, a new agency dedicated to providing specialised marine insurance products tailored to the Australian market.
This initiative marks Rhodian's third agency launch, following the establishment of Halo Underwriting and Batch Underwriting in previous years.

Marinex Underwriting is set to offer a range of products, including cargo, carriers, commercial hull, and marine liability insurance. The agency is backed by global specialty insurance distributor Amwins, ensuring robust support and expertise in the field. The leadership team comprises CEO Chris Kelly, National Relationship Manager Janelle Karnib, and Ainsley Smith, all of whom bring extensive experience in marine underwriting.

Chris Kelly expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating that Marinex aims to become the go-to marine underwriting agency in Australia by delivering unparalleled service and innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of clients. The agency's structure is designed to prioritise broker relationships, with a strong emphasis on service excellence.

The establishment of Marinex Underwriting comes at a time when the global marine insurance industry is experiencing growth. According to the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI), global marine insurance premiums increased by 5.9% in 2023, reaching US$38.9 billion. This growth is attributed to increased trade volumes and higher values of vessels and offshore energy assets.

For Australian boat owners and marine businesses, the entry of Marinex Underwriting into the market offers new opportunities for tailored insurance solutions. The agency's focus on specialised products and commitment to broker service align with the needs of the local marine community, providing options that cater to the unique challenges faced by the industry.

As Marinex Underwriting begins operations, it is poised to make a significant impact on the Australian marine insurance landscape, offering expertise and customised solutions to meet the diverse needs of clients across the sector.

Published:Tuesday, 27th Jan 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

What Global Marine Risk Trends Mean for Australian Boat Owners
What Global Marine Risk Trends Mean for Australian Boat Owners
02 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Fresh global marine risk reporting has again highlighted a useful contrast for Australian boat owners: major vessel losses may be improving over the long term, but the risks that drive insurance claims are becoming more complex. - read more
What Insurance Code Reform Could Mean for Boat Owners
What Insurance Code Reform Could Mean for Boat Owners
26 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s general insurance sector is continuing to sharpen its focus on customer protections, with industry attention now turning from consultation to the practical impact of updated code standards. For boat owners, this is more than a technical compliance story. The way an insurer explains cover, handles a claim and communicates during a stressful incident can determine whether a policy feels valuable or disappointing when it matters most. - read more
Lithium Battery Fire Risk Puts Boat Cover Under the Spotlight
Lithium Battery Fire Risk Puts Boat Cover Under the Spotlight
12 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Fresh marine safety attention on lithium-ion battery fires is a timely warning for Australian boat owners, particularly as more vessels carry rechargeable equipment. From electric tenders and fishing electronics to portable fridges, power tools, e-foils, scooters and camera gear, modern boating increasingly depends on compact batteries that can store a lot of energy in a small space. - read more
Why Insurance Complaint Trends Matter for Boat Owners
Why Insurance Complaint Trends Matter for Boat Owners
05 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s latest external dispute resolution figures are a timely reminder that insurance value is tested most clearly at claim time. While the data is not written specifically for marine policies, it points to familiar pressure points for boat owners: delayed decisions, disputes about policy wording, disagreements over repair scope and frustration when communication breaks down. - read more
Why Severe Weather Readiness Matters for Boat Owners
Why Severe Weather Readiness Matters for Boat Owners
29 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s latest severe weather preparedness messaging from the insurance sector is a timely reminder that boat owners face a different risk profile to many households. Storms, flood surge, hail, cyclonic winds and marina damage can all affect vessels well before a skipper has a chance to move them. For owners in Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and the Northern Territory in particular, the lead-up to summer is not just a maintenance checkpoint; it is a financial protection checkpoint. - read more


Boat Insurance Articles

The Must-Have Safety Equipment for Australian Boaters
The Must-Have Safety Equipment for Australian Boaters
Boating is a beloved pastime in Australia, offering endless opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and sparkling waterways. However, enjoying your time on the water safely is paramount. Proper safety measures are essential to ensure that every boating activity is as enjoyable as it is secure. - read more
Understanding the Fine Print: A Beginner's Guide to Boat Insurance in Australia
Understanding the Fine Print: A Beginner's Guide to Boat Insurance in Australia
Welcome to the nautical world of boat insurance – a crucial safeguard for any Australian skippering their own vessel. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just beginning to dip your toes in the water, understanding the intricacies of boat insurance is essential in ensuring your maritime escapades are smooth sailing. - read more
Personal Watercraft and Jet Ski Insurance in Australia
Personal Watercraft and Jet Ski Insurance in Australia
Jet skis and other personal watercraft have distinct insurance considerations, including theft risk, liability exposure, storage conditions, rider experience and policy limits. This guide explains what Australian PWC owners should check before choosing cover. - read more
How Storage, Mooring and Trailering Can Affect Boat Insurance
How Storage, Mooring and Trailering Can Affect Boat Insurance
Where your boat is kept, how it is secured and how it is transported can affect boat insurance cover, exclusions and claims. This guide explains common storage, mooring, trailering, navigation and lay-up conditions Australian boat owners should check before they rely on a policy. - read more
Recreational and Commercial Boat Insurance: Key Differences in Australia
Recreational and Commercial Boat Insurance: Key Differences in Australia
Using a boat for income, hire, charter, tours or other business activity can change the type of marine insurance cover you need. Learn how recreational and commercial boat insurance differ in Australia, what insurers may ask, and why disclosure matters. - read more

Knowledgebase
Grace Period:
A time period after the premium is due during which an insurance policy remains in force even if the premium has not yet been paid.