Hands-on, sails up: John Tuckwell on bringing real sailing experience to marine insurance

With over 50 years of sailing experience and a career that began in brokerage and evolved into specialist marine underwriting, John brings a rare blend of technical expertise and real-world insight.

Now part of the Geo team, he shares how his sailing roots shape his approach, what drew him to Geo, and why brokers benefit from working with a team that truly speaks the language of the marine community. 

Can you tell us a bit about your career to date – how did you get into Marine insurance?

I’ve been passionate about sailing since I was 10 years old. When I launched my own brokeage, I was also actively involved in running the Dart 18 Class Association, which was one of the largest in the UK at the time. That connection naturally led to a growing number of marine insurance enquiries.

We quickly developed a specialism in catamarans, and the account expanded significantly. The relationships I built during that time followed me through the sale of my business.

You joined the Geo team this year – what was it about Geo that prompted you to make the move?

What drew me to Geo was the people – their depth of knowledge and genuine involvement in the marine sector. It’s refreshing to work alongside fellow sailors who truly understand the nuances of the industry. Unlike other areas of insurance, marine requires a hands-on understanding. Knowing the difference between a yacht and a motorboat isn’t just technical – it’s essential.
 

We understand you’re a sailor in your own right – can you tell us when you first began sailing and how this shapes your free time?

I started sailing 50 years ago at a club in East London, where we learned not just to sail but also to build and maintain the boats. That hands-on experience shaped my lifelong connection to the sport. 
 
Over the years, I’ve raced everything from dinghies to large yachts, at levels ranging from local club events to world championships. Sailing continues to be a major part of my life – whether I’m on the water, attending events, or helping organise them. Planning usually starts early in the year, and I really enjoy engaging with other sailors and staying connected to what’s happening at the grassroots level. 

What are your key predictions for the industry over the next 12–18 months, particularly with regards to Marine Trade?

I believe we’ll see continued consolidation in the marine insurance market, which may lead to fewer sources of specialist knowledge. That makes it even more important for those with expertise to actively promote their capabilities and maintain strong communication with both brokers and clients. Staying visible and engaged will be key.

Why should brokers trade with Geo for their Marine needs?

Geo’s long-standing involvement in the marine sector, combined with our deep expertise and commitment to service, makes us a natural choice. We understand the market, we speak the language of sailors, and we prioritise delivering a high level of support to our broker partners.

Get in touch today

Looking for a marine insurance partner who truly understands the water? Contact our team at sales@geounderwriting.com