The latest Seafarers Happiness Index, now in its tenth year, has just dropped, and it’s a mixed bag of news for the maritime industry. The index ticked up slightly from 6.91 in Q4 2024 to 6.98 out of 10 in Q1 2025. While any improvement is a step in the right direction, let’s not break out the champagne just yet. The survey, run by The Mission to Seafarers, offers a stark reminder that the industry still has some serious issues to tackle.
Top of the list? Safe manning. Seafarers are screaming from the rooftops about diminishing crew sizes and aging vessel infrastructure. It’s a recipe for disaster, with seafarers forced to implement triage systems for maintenance tasks. They’re left addressing only the most urgent repairs while routine upkeep falls by the wayside. This isn’t just a technical challenge; it’s a moral one. Seafarers describe it as overwhelming and demoralizing, and it’s a clear and present danger to operational safety and personal wellbeing.
And speaking of wellbeing, workload and stress continue to be major stressors. Long hours, excessive admin, and constant pressure from shoreside management are taking a toll. Seafarers are frustrated that operational efficiency is often prioritized over human wellbeing. It’s a classic case of the tail wagging the dog, and it’s got to stop.
Shore leave, or lack thereof, is another hot-button issue. Even when it’s technically permitted, lack of transportation or time pressures often make it impractical. Seafarers are left feeling confined and mentally fatigued, with heightened levels of homesickness and emotional strain. They’re calling for better communication options and more balanced rotation schedules, and who can blame them?
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, doesn’t mince words. He says addressing these challenges is essential for operational performance and future-proofing the sector. “When seafarers are overburdened with the constant demands of maintaining aging ships, often with limited support and antiquated tools, their morale and wellbeing suffer, as does the safety and efficiency of operations on board,” he explains. He’s right. Neglecting seafarers compromises the reliability of global maritime trade. It’s as simple as that.
Thom Herbert, Key Account Manager and Crew Welfare Advocate at Idwal, echoes these sentiments. He says the Seafarers Happiness Index reinforces what they regularly encounter during vessel inspections. “Too many seafarers still face barriers to shore leave, rest, and mental health support. These are not just wellbeing issues, they are operational ones, too,” he states. It’s a powerful reminder that the human element remains the foundation of maritime success.
Yves Vandenborn, Head of Loss Prevention Asia-Pacific at NorthStandard, adds another layer to the discussion. He notes that while the survey highlights what’s good in the working environment, it also shines a light on what needs improvement. Persistent overwork, stagnant wages, and patchy welfare support continue to have a negative impact on morale. He’s right. Social interaction is vital, but it needs to be managed carefully to avoid digital fatigue, security risks, and onboard conflicts.
So, what’s next? The Seafarers Happiness Index is a powerful tool, but it’s just the start. Stakeholders need to act decisively. Invest in vessel upkeep, prioritize targeted, hands-on training, and ensure crews have access to rest, support, and meaningful connections ashore and at home. It’s not just about the bottom line; it’s about the people who make the industry tick. Their wellbeing can’t be an afterthought. It’s time to put our money where our mouth is and make some real changes. The future of the maritime industry depends on it.
