The latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) survey conducted by the Mission to Seafarers, in partnership with Idwal and NorthStandard, has revealed a downturn in seafarers’ happiness for the first time in four quarters. The survey, which scored seafaring life at 6.91 in Q4 2024 compared to 7.16 in Q3 of the previous year, highlighted restrictive port policies as a major reason for the decline. Many seafarers reported feeling isolated and frustrated due to limited shore access, poorly maintained facilities, and inconvenient transportation options, contributing to heightened mental strain.
Connectivity issues also remain a significant source of discontent among seafarers. Despite promises of free Wi-Fi onboard, inadequate infrastructure often leads to unreliable or unusable connectivity, leaving seafarers struggling to stay connected with family and friends. This lack of connectivity intensifies feelings of isolation and negatively impacts morale. Additionally, concerns were raised over stagnant wages amid rising living costs, with many seafarers feeling that their wages have not kept pace with inflation or the increasing demands of the job, leading to growing dissatisfaction.
Training presented both positive and negative experiences for seafarers in the survey. While many reported access to quality mentorship opportunities and professional development programs, others expressed frustration with redundant training requirements. Workload and fatigue were highlighted as significant issues, driven by long hours, inadequate staffing, and a rise in administrative burdens. Despite efforts to streamline processes through digitalization, persistent paperwork continues to drain time and energy, increasing fatigue levels and jeopardizing safety and well-being. Social interaction onboard was identified as another area in need of attention, with high workloads often restricting opportunities for social interaction and departmental segregation further adding to the sense of disconnection. Addressing these issues could significantly enhance morale, foster teamwork, and contribute to safer, more efficient operations.
