Rikke Bjerg Jensen, a researcher at the University of Southern Denmark, has delved into the often-overlooked digital lives of seafarers, revealing how fragmented connectivity shapes their work, rest, and relationships. In a study published in the Journal of Maritime Studies, Jensen explores the uncertainties and challenges seafarers face due to unreliable digital connections during long periods at sea. The research, based on ethnographic observations and interviews with 43 seafarers on two container ships, offers a unique glimpse into the creative strategies seafarers employ to maintain connections with loved ones and manage their daily routines.
The study highlights how the intermittent nature of digital connectivity—caused by ships moving in and out of signal range or by depleted onboard data allowances—creates a sense of instability. This instability can disrupt seafarers’ personal and professional lives, affecting their ability to communicate, access information, and maintain a sense of security. Jensen’s findings underscore the importance of reliable digital infrastructure at sea, not just for operational efficiency but also for the well-being of the crew.
Seafarers, Jensen found, develop ingenious workarounds to cope with these challenges. They carefully ration their data usage, time their communications to coincide with periods of better connectivity, and rely on each other for support. These strategies, while effective in the short term, highlight the need for more robust and consistent digital solutions tailored to the maritime environment.
The research also touches on the broader implications for maritime policy and technology development. Jensen argues that improving digital connectivity at sea is not just a matter of enhancing onboard systems but also involves addressing the broader socio-technical aspects of seafarers’ lives. This includes ensuring that seafarers have access to affordable and reliable communication tools, as well as providing training and support to help them navigate the digital landscape.
For the maritime industry, these findings serve as a call to action. As ships become increasingly connected, the digital experience of seafarers will play a crucial role in their overall well-being and job satisfaction. By investing in better connectivity solutions and supporting seafarers in their digital endeavors, shipping companies can enhance operational efficiency and crew welfare.
Jensen’s study is a timely reminder of the human element in maritime technology. As the industry moves towards greater automation and digitalization, it is essential to ensure that these advancements benefit not just the bottom line but also the people who keep the ships running. The research sets the stage for future studies and practical interventions that can make a real difference in the lives of seafarers, ensuring that they remain connected, secure, and supported, even in the most remote corners of the ocean. Read the original research paper here.