West P&I has reported a stable and disciplined renewal at 20 February, achieving high levels of Member retention while continuing to grow its entered tonnage across all Classes through the selective acquisition of new quality business, both from our existing Membership and from new entries to the Club.
The renewal was completed against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical risk, regulatory complexity and continued volatility across global shipping markets. Despite these challenges, and for the fourth consecutive year, the Club is encouraged to report continued support from existing Members with retention over 99.5% and with strong organic growth at renewal, and throughout the 2025/26 Policy Year.
Several new Members were welcomed to West on 20th February 2026, as we continue our selective approach to new business across all regions and sectors of the market. The result of this means the total mutual tonnage of the Club has increased again by approximately 12.5% to 121 million GT, with gross written premiums forecast to exceed USD 430m in 2026/27.
The Fixed and Charterers books have also developed positively in the last 12 months, with high retention in both classes reflecting the Club’s ongoing commitment to service across all departments. The broader reach West now enjoys is already benefitting the Club’s membership. We have seen controlled growth both from existing Members and non-entered fleets in our Hull, War, Loss of Hire, and Delay classes, with each product contributing positively to the overall technical performance of the Club.
Bart Mertens, Chief Underwriting Officer of West, said: “We are pleased with the outcome of the 20th February renewal, both in terms of retention and the quality of new business written. In a demanding environment for shipowners, these results reflect the discipline of our underwriting approach and the ongoing support of our Members and brokers. I am grateful for their continued confidence in the Club.”
The Club enters the 2026/27 Policy Year with a well-diversified portfolio, a robust capital position and a continued focus on sustainable underwriting performance, claims management and loss prevention. It also offers a wide range of additional products and services, including through its wholly owned subsidiary Nordic.
West remains committed to supporting Members through evolving operational and geopolitical risks, while maintaining a balanced approach to growth and long-term financial stability.
Source: West P&I Club
