Gard

Gard is the world's largest Protection and Indemnity club by entered tonnage, headquartered in Arendal, Norway, and is a founding member of the International Group of P&I Clubs. It insures roughly 265 million gross tonnes of shipping — approximately one quarter of the International Group's total — against third-party liabilities. On 5 March 2026, Gard cancelled cover for vessels trading to or through Iranian ports and high-risk Persian Gulf waters, joining four other clubs in a simultaneous withdrawal that effectively removed most internationally-insured tonnage from Iranian routes.

Norwegian law and Gard's reinsurance treaties with the London market make continued Iran-route cover legally unworkable under prevailing sanctions. As the largest club, Gard's participation in the collective cancellation significantly amplified the insurance blockade's practical reach: even tanker operators who prefer Norwegian registry cannot retain Gard cover while trading with Iran.

Gard also provides hull and machinery and offshore energy insurance through subsidiaries, making it one of the most comprehensive maritime insurers globally. Its cancellation decision is considered the bellwether of the International Group's collective stance, and its reinsurance pool relationships with London underwriters mean any relaxation would also require Lloyd's approval.