A recent survey conducted by the World Maritime University (WMU) reveals troubling conditions for seafarers, highlighting excessive workloads, chronic stress, and deteriorating mental health, which are driving many to consider leaving the profession. The report, titled In Search of a Sea-Life Balance in an Adverse Environment, was commissioned by the Officers’ Union of International Seamen (OUIS) and includes insights from 4,372 seafarers across 99 nationalities, making it a significant workforce analysis.
Key findings indicate that seafarers are working an average of 71 hours per week globally, with US seafarers averaging 79 hours. Many respondents reported severe stress levels, with nearly half of US seafarers experiencing poor mental wellbeing. WMU President Maximo Mejia emphasized the critical need for improved mental health support and working conditions to ensure the maritime workforce’s sustainability.
Alarmingly, nearly half of the respondents plan to leave seafaring within the next five years, particularly among US seafarers, where only 40.2% intend to remain at sea. The study also notes frustration with safety management systems, with a significant percentage of US respondents finding manuals overly complex and procedures disconnected from real-life conditions. OUIS Executive Director Nick Bramley stressed the urgent need for industry changes to retain experienced seafarers and attract new talent.
