LONGER transits caused by Red Sea diversions appear to be giving seafarers more time to rest, resulting in an improvement in wellbeing, a Mission to Seafarers report has found.
MTS recently published the latest quarterly results of its ongoing Seafarers Happiness Index survey, which invites seafarers to weigh in on workloads, food quality, social interaction and other aspects of life at sea. The survey is delivered in association with Idwal and NorthStandard, with support from Inmarsat.
The latest report, for the third quarter of 2024, shows an increase from 6.99 in Q2 to 7.16 in Q3, out of a possible score of 10.
MTS describes this as a marginal increase, though a clear positive shift in seafarer satisfaction.
The organisation attributed the increase to opportunities for rest, routine establishment and social activities on board, caused by longer voyages as ships continue to avoid the Red Sea.
“The benefits of longer transit routes show that even small changes can have a positive impact, but there’s more to be done to ensure our crews feel supported, respected, and rewarded for their vital work,” Mission to Seafarers director of programme Ben Bailey said.
NorthStandard head of loss prevention Asia-Pacific Yves Vandenborn said longer transit routes have unexpectedly allowed senior officers to engage more with junior crew members.
“This additional time at sea has enhanced camaraderie, but workload stress, especially related to watchkeeping and time zones, proves a significant challenge,” he said.
“Overall, while there are positive trends, areas like shore leave, workload, food variety and support systems need improvements to further enhance seafarers’ wellbeing.”
And Idwal key account manager Thom Herbert said the latest findings “resonate strongly” with what Idwal is seeing though its vessel inspections.
“The concerns raised about inadequate training for new environmental technologies are worrying trends that require industry-wide attention,” he said.
“The report’s emphasis on the need for improved internet connectivity and shore leave opportunities reinforces what we’re seeing across the global fleet – these fundamental aspects of crew welfare cannot be overlooked if we want to attain the highest standards in shipping.”
The threat continues
Mr Bailey of MTS also noted the root cause of the diversions should not be overlooked.
Just last week International Maritime Organization secretary-general Arsenio Dominquez concluded a visit to countries in the Red Sea area to discuss the situation and his concerns for the safety of crews.
He expressed particular concern for the crewmembers of hijacked ro-ro vessel Galaxy Leader, who remain captive.
“The continuous attacks on ships and seafarers in the Red Sea are endangering innocent human lives, affecting the entire shipping industry and therefore the global economy,” Mr Dominguez said.
“International shipping carries around 80% of trade in goods in the world and the Red Sea is one of the main shipping routes. All countries are affected by disruptions to international shipping.”
Mr Dominguez said he would continue to engage with all IMO member states, UN agencies and stakeholders to ensure the principle of freedom of navigation is re-established.
“It is through discussions with all the countries that we will be able to protect seafarers and build a resilient and sustainable maritime transport system.”
Mr Bailey said MTS also urges all parties to “do what they can to reduce the unacceptable risks faced by seafarers from the continued attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea”.
