InterManager is urging seafarers to participate in a global survey addressing fatalities in enclosed spaces, despite improved safety measures. In 2023, 14 incidents resulted in 34 deaths, primarily in bulk carriers. The survey seeks insights from those affected to enhance training and hazard awareness, aiming to reduce these tragic occurrences.
Thirty-two Filipino seafarers have been rescued from an abusive employer in Fiji by the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. They endured mistreatment, including delayed wages and physical abuse. Upon returning to the Philippines, they received financial assistance and support services to help them rebuild their lives.
The Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Ministry, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Mission in Egypt and Eritrean authorities, successfully repatriated six Sri Lankan seafarers detained in Eritrea. This operation reflects the ministry’s commitment to the welfare of Sri Lankans abroad, ensuring their interests are safeguarded through diplomatic efforts.
At the 67th ISSA Convention in Singapore, Mr. Jan Engel de Boer highlighted the IMO’s initiatives supporting seafarers, including an upgraded joint database on seafarer abandonment. He praised ISSA’s commitment to welfare, especially during the COVID-19 crew change crisis, emphasizing collaboration to improve working conditions and preparedness for future health emergencies.
The RMT union has secured a landmark victory for British Antarctic Survey employees, achieving pay increases of up to 37%. The new pay scale, resulting from extensive negotiations, benefits many workers, with raises averaging 26%. This agreement also introduces specialist allowances and performance bonuses, enhancing overall compensation for members.
The All Aboard Alliance has launched its 2026-2030 strategy at the Global Maritime Forum Summit 2025, focusing on enhancing maritime workers’ lives. Key objectives include ensuring safe working conditions, promoting well-being, and fostering inclusion. The initiative aims to create flexible career paths, driving meaningful change for a sustainable maritime sector.
On October 18, an explosion aboard the LPG carrier ‘Falcon’ in the Gulf of Aden triggered distress signals. Captain Joginder Singh of the ‘Meda’ swiftly directed his crew to the scene, overcoming communication challenges. They successfully rescued 24 survivors, showcasing exceptional bravery and adherence to maritime safety protocols amidst perilous conditions.
A dramatic rescue unfolded off Yemen’s coast after the MV Falcon, a Cameroon-flagged LPG carrier, exploded and caught fire. EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, led by Rear Admiral Andrea Quondamatteo, swiftly responded, rescuing 24 crew members. However, two remain missing, prompting warnings to nearby vessels about the hazardous situation.
The shipping industry is evolving with autonomous systems and AI, raising concerns about seafarers’ safety and well-being. The STEER project, by The Nautical Institute and Lloyd’s Register Foundation, aims to assess these technologies’ real-world impacts, focusing on seafarers’ operational efficiency and mental health, ensuring their welfare amidst innovation.
A rising trend among seafarers involves exaggerating work experience to secure tanker jobs, warns Danica, an international crewing service provider. They stress the need for collaboration among authorities and agencies to combat this issue, urging shipowners to partner with reputable crewing firms to ensure safety and competence aboard tankers.
ABS has signed an agreement to acquire MetaSHIP intellectual property and vessel simulator software from Orka Informatics, pending Turkish regulatory approval. This move aims to enhance ABS’s maritime training solutions, offering accessible digital training on board, in ports, or from home, while improving fleet safety and compliance in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Magenta Project has launched the Mighty Magenta Community Hub, a dynamic platform designed to empower the sailing community. This initiative features networking opportunities, an interactive newsfeed, and resources aimed at promoting equity and inclusion in sailing. It coincides with the Magenta Mentoring Programme, supporting women’s participation in the industry.
Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL) has reaffirmed its commitment to hiring Fijian seafarers, despite recent contract non-renewals affecting around 50 locals. Marketing manager Claire Wheeler emphasized local recruitment and NPDL’s partnership with Fiji National University to enhance maritime training, aiming to equip more Fijians for seafaring roles.
A Filipino seafarer tragically lost his life during a Houthi attack on the freighter Minervagracht. Reports revealed he was unaware of his right to disembark before entering a dangerous zone. The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers emphasized that maritime regulations protect seafarers from being sent into war zones without consent.
The UK Department for Transport has partnered with Nautilus to conduct a survey focused on the future of the maritime workforce and seafarer training policies. This initiative aims to gather insights on workforce composition, recruitment challenges, and career advancement pathways, ultimately shaping national policy for the maritime sector.
