Delegates at the TUC Congress from September 7-10, 2025, unanimously endorsed Nautilus International’s motion titled Future-Proofing UK Maritime Skills and Training. This motion emphasizes the need for full government support in maritime training, urging for 100% SMarT funding and a minimum training allowance for aspiring maritime professionals. It also calls for the establishment of a single national maritime training provider accountable to the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) or the Department for Transport (DfT) to ensure consistent training quality.
Captain Iain MacKenzie, vice-chair of Nautilus International Council, highlighted the UK’s reliance on maritime trade, stating that 95% of goods arrive by sea. He warned that the future of the maritime workforce is at risk due to a growing funding gap, which could jeopardize the next generation of seafarers. He emphasized that training must be inclusive, addressing the challenges faced by ratings, who are crucial yet often overlooked.
Furthermore, MacKenzie criticized the outdated UK Tonnage Tax, which fails to incentivize shipowners effectively. He urged for reforms that tie tax benefits to commitments in training and employing UK seafarers. He concluded by calling for solidarity to secure a skilled and resilient maritime future.
