At the CREW Connect Global seafaring conference, the Department of Migrant Workers reported that 4,687 Filipino seafarers are currently working in high-risk zones, facing threats of piracy and armed conflict. Government agencies are increasing assistance, but stronger protocols are needed. Captains and officials urge immediate action to protect seafarers facing direct threats.
The fifth annual survey by Danica Crewing Specialists shows a persistent shortage of competent seafarers leading to increasing benefits for industry workers. Wages are rising, job choices are more selective, but welfare concerns remain. Disparities in wages among ranks and nationalities are evident, with issues like fake experience and crew welfare challenges also highlighted.
In the maritime industry, strides towards gender equality are visible as companies like Maersk increase the number of female seafarers. The percentage of women in Maersk’s workforce has doubled from 2.3% in 2022 to 5.5% in 2024, with Indian women playing a significant role in this growth.
The Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF) is collaborating with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Lloyd’s Register Foundation to develop training materials on alternative fuels for the maritime industry. The project aims to enhance seafarers’ competencies in using new low-emission fuels, addressing gaps in current training standards.
Seafarer trainers from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam recently completed intensive training on LNG-fuelled ships in Japan. The workshop focused on safety compliance with the IGF Code, including classroom lectures, simulator trainings, and emergency response exercises. Trainers gained hands-on experience with LNG bunkering simulators to enhance their training programs for seafarers.
The European Union is providing a maritime technical assistance package to the Philippines to improve maritime safety and labor standards for Filipino seafarers. This initiative will enhance the country’s maritime regulatory agencies and strengthen connectivity with the EU and ASEAN nations. The project aims to elevate the Philippines’ maritime industry to international standards.
The disciplinary court in the Netherlands fined a fishing vessel’s helmsman for leaving the bridge unattended to use the restroom. The vessel collided with an anchored tanker, causing damage and a small spill. The helmsman deviated from the planned route, leading to the collision. Proper watchstanding practices are crucial to prevent accidents at sea.
Maritime Institute, known as MI, has acquired Compass Courses in Edmonds, WA, with training programs starting in December 2024. CEO Dave Abrams and founder Julie Keim expressed excitement about the merger, aiming to enhance maritime training in the Pacific Northwest. The collaboration seeks to address the global shortage of mariners.
Ships do not have brakes like cars or bikes; their speed is controlled in advance. A viral video on social media featured a crew member explaining how ships are brought to a stop. Aman Singh from Danish Shipping company Myresque shared insights with his followers, sparking curiosity and engaging conversations about maritime operations.
A recreational fisherman discovered a missing seafarer from the bulk carrier Double Delight off Blacksmith Beach. The man had gone overboard and was found floating in the water by the fisherman, who happened to be a doctor. The miraculous rescue was described as a “miracle” by the Mission to Seafarers director.
ClassNK has recognized the bulk carrier ROYAL LAUREL for its innovative onboard vegetable grower system, making it the first vessel in ClassNK’s registry to receive the ‘ELW (HP)’ designation. Developed by HSN-KIKAI KOGYO CO., LTD, the system enhances crew welfare by creating a healthier and more productive work environment at sea.
Filipino seafarers on Dutch-owned ships are fighting for fair treatment and equal pay, as they earn less than their European counterparts. Despite meeting the ILO’s wage standard, they face delays in medical care and unequal treatment. The wage gap is justified by a “cost-of-living adjustment,” but Filipino seafarers argue for equal compensation.
Liverpool Seafarers Centre is spreading holiday cheer with their Christmas parcel appeal for seafarers visiting the port. The charity is collecting donations for gift parcels to uplift seafarers spending the festive season away from their families. Recognizing their vital role in the global economy, the centre aims to provide support and hospitality to these individuals.
The crew of the Mein Schiff fleet has a unique opportunity to showcase their artistic talents by designing sculptures for the InTUItion 2 Pool Deck on the upcoming ship Mein Schiff Flow. This initiative allows crew members to make a significant contribution and leave a lasting impact on the ship’s visual appeal.
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) has outlined the UK’s plans to implement changes to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) agreed upon in June 2022. The ‘Seafarers Bill of Rights’ sets out seafarers’ fundamental rights globally, with new requirements to be incorporated into UK law by 2025.
