Seafarer welfare – the digital divide

The latest index report by the Mission to Seafarers revealed the emergence of two classes when it comes to life at sea, particularly in relation to access to modern communications and connectivity for seafarers.

The latest quarterly survey of the Seafarer Happiness Index saw a small tick upwards to 6.99 points, out of a possible 10, compared to 6.94 points in Q1 this year. The quarterly survey is undertaken by the Mission to Seafarers and delivered in association with Idwal and NorthStandard and supported by Inmarsat.

While the latest survey showed marginal improvement there is concern over evidence of a growing digital divide and level of well-being between different vessel types.

A disparity in results was seen between seafarers serving on tankers and those on board dry bulk and container ships when it comes to preparedness for new fuels. Those on tankers felt well prepared and qualified, while their fellow seafarers on dry bulk and container ships felt left out of crucial developments around new fuels.

The revolution in communications is leading to a divide between the have and have nots when it comes to connectivity at sea. For seafarers with up-to-date communications technology onboard the vessel the report noted many seafarers “expressed profound gratitude”. By contrast many others still have little or no connectivity, with limits on data, slow connections, or simply no access at all.

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“At Idwal, we're particularly concerned by the emerging 'two-speed' industry revealed in this report, especially the ongoing issue around connectivity and, also, the readiness for new technologies, where the disparity in experiences between tanker crews and those on dry cargo vessels is striking,” said Thom Herbert, Key Account Manager (Asia) & Crew Welfare Advocate, Idwal.

“It's crucial that the industry addresses the digital divide and ensures equal access to training opportunities across all vessel types. Only by treating seafarer welfare as a non-negotiable priority across all sectors can we build a more resilient and sustainable maritime industry.”

When it comes to shore leave some seafarers find this restricted due to tight port schedules, regulatory barriers, and practices by different ports and individual companies. It was noted that access to facilities such as gyms were essential for maintaining health but the quality of equipment and standards needs to be improved.

“I’m heartened that those responsible for our seafarers are taking measures to ensure the enhancement of well-being. However, reports of a distinction between the ‘haves and have-nots’ of welfare standards on board are worrying,” commented Andrew Wright, Secretary-General, The Mission to Seafarers.

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“Every single seafarer deserves access to the fundamentals that are needed to support a safe and rewarding life at sea, including access to shore leave, decent connectivity, good onboard facilities, and regular training.”