Chennai and Kamarajar Ports Launch Exclusive Clubs for Seafarers’ Comfort and Well-Being

The Chennai Port and the Kamarajar Port are set to introduce new exclusive clubs for seafarers, offering a range of amenities. Recognizing the need for seafarers to unwind after long journeys, both ports are in the process of establishing these clubs within their premises. Currently, the Seafarers’ Club at Chennai Port is located outside the port’s boundaries, requiring crew members to obtain passes from immigration officials to access its facilities. The new clubs will eliminate this requirement, providing seafarers with easy access to amenities such as a gym, kitchen, library, dining area, supermarket, and resting rooms. The estimated cost for setting up the facility is around ₹7 crore, with plans to award the contract in March and complete construction by December.

For Kamarajar Port, this will be the first dedicated club for seafarers, offering an array of additional facilities. In addition to resting rooms, a dining area, library, and kitchen, the club will feature a bar, lobby, business center, and courts for badminton and table tennis. With an estimated construction cost of ₹10 crore, the club is expected to be completed by March. The remote locations of the ports make it challenging for crew members to access city amenities, especially after long voyages. Having a club on the port premises will provide a convenient and relaxing environment for seafarers, particularly during extended stays when tankers are berthed for a day or capesize vessels are present for several days.

The initiative to establish these clubs aligns with the Directorate-General of Shipping’s emphasis on providing quality recreational facilities for seafarers. By creating a comfortable space within the port premises, crew members can easily relax and rejuvenate before their next voyage. The clubs aim to enhance the overall well-being and morale of seafarers, recognizing the importance of their rest and relaxation after challenging maritime journeys. The development of these clubs underscores the ports’ commitment to supporting the welfare and needs of seafarers, ultimately contributing to a more positive and sustainable maritime industry.

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