The maritime industry is set to converge in Athens on 25 June 2025 for the 3rd CSN Mediterranean Crewing Conference, a gathering that promises to be a pivotal moment for seafarer welfare, training, and digital transformation. The event, held at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, will bring together industry leaders, experts, and innovators to explore the latest advancements shaping the future of crewing and ship operations.
Under the theme “Empowering Seafarers: Innovations in Welfare, Training, and Digital Transformation,” the conference aims to address the pressing needs of seafarers in an ever-evolving industry. The event is placed under the auspices of the Propeller Club and supported by a host of influential maritime organisations, including WISTA Hellas, HELMEPA, WIMA, Mediterranean Maritime Academy, Port Captains Club, and AMMITEC. Attendance is free for members of the supporting organisations, but attendees are encouraged to contribute to a charity foundation supported by the conference.
The conference will kick off with a session on Seafarer Well-Being, focusing on innovations in healthcare, connectivity, pre-boarding, and support at sea. Experts will delve into physical and mental health support, nutrition, fitness, regulations, and the provision of reliable internet access. “Crew well-being is essential to maritime success,” said Adonis Violaris, Managing Director of CSN. “This session will explore how to enhance the physical and mental health of seafarers while improving onboard connectivity.”
One of the highlights of the conference will be an on-stage interview with Stylianos Psillakis, Technical Director at Columbia Group. Violaris will moderate a 10-minute conversation with Psillakis, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session with the audience. This session will offer a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insights into technical and operational challenges in modern ship management, as well as the evolving role of digitalisation and crewing in the shipping industry.
Another key session will focus on optimising crew potential through training and motivation strategies. Experts will discuss advanced training methods, safety and compliance, leadership and team building, motivation and retention, and tech-driven learning. “In today’s competitive maritime industry, crew competence and motivation are key to operational success,” said a spokesperson for the conference. “This session will bring together experts to explore effective training approaches and strategies for boosting crew engagement and performance.”
The conference will also feature a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Stavros Avgoustides, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus in Athens; Henrik Jensen, CEO and Founder of Danica Crewing Specialists; and Anna Pittalis, Commercial Director, Head of Shipping & Trading at Intergaz Ltd and President of WISTA Cyprus. Other notable speakers include Julien Ledoux of KVH Media Group Communication Ltd, Zoe Morphitou of KVH Industries, and Capt. George Vlachos of the Mediterranean Maritime Academy.
The event is expected to shape future developments in the maritime sector by fostering a more connected, innovative, and seafarer-centric industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the need for enhanced welfare, training, and digital transformation becomes increasingly apparent. This conference serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to come together, share knowledge, and contribute to a safer, more resilient maritime workforce.
For those interested in supporting the conference, sponsorships and panelist slots are still available. Interested parties can contact the organisers at [email protected]. The programme of the conference is available on the event’s website and will be updated regularly.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and the 3rd CSN Mediterranean Crewing Conference aims to steer it towards a future where seafarers are empowered, supported, and equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century. As the industry continues to evolve, events like this will play a crucial role in shaping its future. So, mark your calendars and get ready to be part of the conversation in Athens this June.