The latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) report for Q1 2025 has dropped, and it’s a mixed bag of good news and persistent problems that the maritime industry can’t afford to ignore. The index, now in its 10th year, shows a slight uptick in seafarer satisfaction, rising to 6.98 out of 10, up from 6.91 in the previous quarter. But let’s not break out the champagne just yet. While there are some positives, the report also shines a spotlight on some long-standing issues that are wearing down our seafarers.
First off, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: aging vessels. The report highlights that seafarers on older ships are facing mounting maintenance demands, and it’s taking a toll. Crews are having to prioritise repairs, leaving routine upkeep to fall by the wayside. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about safety and morale. Seafarers are describing these challenges as ‘overwhelming’ and ‘demoralising’, and it’s clear that this is a ticking time bomb for operational safety.
Now, let’s dive into the training conundrum. While some seafarers are getting access to development opportunities, many are crying out for more practical, scenario-based instruction. They want training that builds real confidence, not just theoretical knowledge. This isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about preparing seafarers for high-stress or emergency situations. The gap between training and lived experience is a chasm, and it’s affecting their sense of safety and preparedness at sea.
And speaking of stress, workload and administrative burdens are still major stressors. Seafarers are pointing to long hours, especially during port operations, and constant pressure from shoreside management. It’s a no-brainer that operational efficiency is important, but not at the cost of human wellbeing. Seafarers need room to rest and recover, and it’s high time the industry acknowledges this.
Shore leave, or the lack thereof, continues to be a thorny issue. Restrictive policies and poor infrastructure are preventing seafarers from stepping ashore, even when it’s technically permitted. The inability to decompress off-ship is adding to feelings of confinement and mental fatigue. It’s a vicious cycle, and it’s one that the industry needs to break.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Many seafarers continue to find fulfilment in their work. Strong teamwork and camaraderie are key to a positive onboard atmosphere, and many seafarers enjoy the technical aspects of their roles. The ability to support their families financially is a major motivator, and it’s something that the industry should leverage.
So, what’s next? The SHI report is a powerful reminder that the human element is the foundation of maritime success. The health of our workforce cannot be an afterthought. It’s time for the industry to act decisively. Invest in vessel upkeep, prioritise targeted, hands-on training, and ensure crews have access to rest, support, and meaningful connections ashore and at home. It’s not just about welfare; it’s about operational performance and future-proofing the sector.
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at The Mission to Seafarers, hit the nail on the head when he said, “Addressing challenges like aging vessels, inadequate training, and restricted shore leave is not just a matter of welfare – it’s essential for operational performance and future-proofing the sector.” It’s high time the industry took this message to heart.
Thom Herbert, Idwal Key Account Manager and Crew Welfare Advocate, echoed this sentiment, adding that a healthy, supported crew is essential to a well-performing ship. “At Idwal, we continue to see how vessel condition, crewing culture, and management practices intersect. A healthy, supported crew is essential to a well-performing ship. That’s why we support the Seafarers Happiness Index; it offers a critical voice from sea to shore, helping the industry align policy with the people who make global trade possible.”
Yves Vandenborn, Head of Loss Prevention Asia-Pacific at NorthStandard, congratulated the SHI on its 10th anniversary, noting that the survey has given seafarers a platform to highlight what’s good in their working environment and what can be improved. “While it is positive to see strong teamwork, pride in the profession, and some improvements in connectivity, there continue to be key challenges that shouldn’t be ignored,” he said.
The ball is in the industry’s court. The SHI report has laid out the challenges; now it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. The future of the maritime industry depends on it.
