What type of ocean marine insurance specifically covers physical damage to the ship while in transit?

Hull insurance specifically covers physical damage to the ship itself while it is in transit. This type of policy protects the vessel against various risks, including accidents, sinking, or other incidents that may cause damage during navigation. By ensuring that the ship's structure and equipment are safeguarded financially, hull insurance enables shipowners to manage the potential financial losses associated with unexpected damages.

Cargo insurance primarily focuses on protecting goods being transported, rather than the vessel. Liability insurance deals with claims made against the owner or operator of the ship for damages to third parties, which does not encompass damage to the ship itself. Freight insurance covers the loss of income due to the non-delivery of cargo, again not addressing the physical condition of the ship. Thus, hull insurance is the appropriate choice for protecting the physical integrity of the ship during its operations at sea.