Seafarers on ferries from Patras and Igoumenitsa will strike for 48 hours on June 3-4, citing chronic understaffing that jeopardizes safety and worsens working conditions. The Panhellenic Maritime Federation (PNO) criticized the government and employers for failing to address crew shortages, emphasizing the urgent need for improved staffing and working conditions.
Frederick University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MSC Shipmanagement Cyprus to enhance the maritime workforce. This partnership includes scholarships for Cypriot students in the blue economy, internships, and educational field trips to major maritime institutions in Europe, aligning academic learning with real-world maritime experience.
The maritime sector has made progress in gender diversity, with over 176,000 women employed globally. However, women comprise only 19% of the workforce and just 1% at sea. Addressing women’s health, particularly during physiological transitions, is crucial for fostering a diverse and effective maritime workforce, as highlighted in recent reports.
The captain of a container ship admitted to gross negligence in a London court after a collision with a US tanker off Great Britain’s east coast, resulting in a crew member’s death. Vladimir Motin’s confession raises serious concerns about maritime safety and the responsibilities of ship captains in preventing such tragedies.
The International Bargaining Forum (IBF), comprising the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG), has secured a significant pay agreement for over 250,000 seafarers. The new terms include a 3.5% wage increase in 2026 and 1.5% in 2027, enhancing compensation for maritime workers globally.
On May 28, 2025, Shantanu Thakur inaugurated significant projects at Deendayal Port Authority, highlighting a commitment to enhancing seafarer welfare and operational excellence. Key developments include a Seafarer Centre with premium amenities, an extended railway infrastructure for better cargo efficiency, and a new telescopic gangway for safer vessel access.
All 20 Filipino seafarers aboard the M/V MSC Elsa, which sank off Kochi, Kerala, are safe and awaiting repatriation. Currently in a local hotel, they maintain communication with families for support. The Department of Migrant Workers is coordinating with authorities to expedite their return to the Philippines.
On May 28, 2025, Thailand’s cabinet approved amendments to the Maritime Labour Act, enhancing seafarer protections to meet international standards. The revisions include employment contracts under the Social Security Act, prohibiting underage employment, and granting the Marine Department authority over training certifications, significantly improving labor conditions for seafarers.
In a dramatic rescue, all ten crew members of the Vietnamese cargo ship Cong Thanh 07 were saved after it sank off Ha Tinh Province on May 25. The vessel, carrying 4,900 tons of coal, succumbed to engine failure and heavy listing, triggering a swift response from local authorities.
Seafarers worldwide face significant challenges, including fatigue and anxiety, according to research from Cardiff University’s Seafarers International Research Centre. Over a third of cargo workers reported insufficient sleep, often due to demanding hours. Alarmingly, many did not receive timely medical care, exacerbating the already difficult conditions at sea.
The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society marked its 159th AGM at Trinity House in London, unveiling a brand refresh to enhance outreach. Following a major refurbishment of Belvedere House, the Society reported increased occupancy and financial stability for 2024, ensuring continued support for former seafarers and their families. CEO Capt David Dominy emphasized quality care.
Women represent a vital yet underutilized resource in the maritime industry, comprising up to 50% of potential talent, according to Mailyn Borillo of OSM Thome Philippines. She stresses the importance of inclusivity in daily operations, advocating for support structures that ensure women’s safety and well-being to foster long-term careers for female seafarers.
The latest Seafarers’ Happiness Index (SHI) reveals a slight rise in overall happiness among maritime workers, reaching 6.98 out of 10 in Q1 2025. Despite this improvement, issues like mental health stress, excessive workloads, and poor connectivity persist, overshadowing pride in their work and camaraderie among crews.
Maritime UK Solent will participate in the Seawork exhibition from June 10 to 12, connecting young people with maritime careers. The event features over 400 exhibitors and 70 vessels. Highlights include a Training and Careers Insight Session for educators and a careers fair for students, showcasing opportunities in the marine sector.
The Trøndelag Police District in Norway has arrested a second officer from the feeder ship NCL Salten, which ran aground near a house. The officer, a Ukrainian in his 30s, confessed to falling asleep while on watch and has been charged with “negligent navigation” under Norwegian law.
