Established by insurance broker Fred Wilson to support Melbourne's growing network of boat dealerships, Club Marine has evolved alongside the Australian boating market. Initially dominated by timber vessels, the market saw the emergence of fibreglass boats in the late 1970s, prompting the company to change its name to Marine Hull Club. In 1986, it adopted the now-familiar name of Club Marine, reflecting its broader expansion.
Ownership changes followed, with Mercantile Mutual Insurance (MMI) acquiring the business in the 1990s, and Allianz taking over in 2003. Today, Club Marine employs around 140 staff across Australia, serving its policyholders and maintaining industry relationships.
The company also publishes Club Marine Magazine, which will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025. With a circulation of over 70,000, it is a leading publication in the marine sector.
CEO Tim Wiles emphasized the company's longstanding focus on customer service, stating, "Throughout my 17 years working for Club Marine, I have seen many great people come and go but also stay, and it's a privilege to be at the helm of a company supported by such a great team." He added that the company remains dedicated to ensuring members and partners receive the best possible service.
In addition to its core insurance products, Club Marine has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing customer engagement, including Club Marine Assist, Member Rewards, and Club Marine TV. The company also recently updated its policies, claiming to set new benchmarks for marine insurance coverage.
As Club Marine celebrates this milestone, the global marine insurance market is also experiencing significant growth. According to the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI), total global marine premiums reached US$38.9 billion in 2023, reflecting a 5.9% increase compared to the previous year. Growth was reported across key segments such as cargo, hull, and offshore energy insurance.
