Ageing vessels push crew to the limit as Seafarers Happiness Index hits 10-year milestone

The Mission to Seafarers' latest edition of its quarterly Seafarers Happiness Index has revealed a steadying in seafarer satisfaction, marking a small rise as the survey enters its 10th year.



The Q1 report shows an overall rise in seafarer happiness to 6.98 out of 10, up from 6.91 in Q4 2024. Despite positives, some key concerns were raised in the survey such as the increasing pressures faced by crew aboard older vessels, where mounting maintenance demands are straining already limited resources and impacting morale.



The Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) is a quarterly survey run by The Mission to Seafarers, in collaboration with Idwal and NorthStandard, and supported by Inmarsat. Now in its 10th year, the Index continues to offer essential insight into the lived experiences of seafarers, shining a light on the area’s most in need of improvement. The latest findings reaffirm the constant need to place seafarer wellbeing at the heart of efforts to build a sustainable and resilient maritime workforce.



The latest survey identifies safe manning as the most critical concern for seafarers. Respondents described how diminishing crew sizes combined with ageing vessel infrastructure create an unsustainable equation. Many reported having to implement triage systems for maintenance tasks, addressing only the most urgent repairs whilst routine upkeep falls behind. This pattern creates cascading technical challenges that seafarers described as 'overwhelming' and 'demoralising', affecting both operational safety and personal wellbeing.



Training also emerged as a concern in Q1. While many seafarers acknowledged access to some development opportunities, others expressed a desire for training that feels more grounded in reality. There is a clear call within the latest edition of the Index for more consistent, practical, and scenario-based instruction that builds real confidence, not just theoretical knowledge, especially in high-stress or emergency situations. For many, the gap between training and lived experience directly affects their sense of safety and preparedness at sea.



The impact of workload and stress continues to be one of the most significant personal stressors reported. Seafarers pointed to long hours, especially during port operations, and described how excessive administrative burdens and constant pressure from shoreside management are negatively effecting morale. Several respondents voiced a growing frustration that operational efficiency is often prioritised over human wellbeing, leaving little room for rest or recovery.



Shore leave limitations continue to be a deeply felt frustration. Many seafarers highlighted how restrictive policies and poor infrastructure prevent them from stepping ashore. Even when shore leave is technically permitted, lack of transportation or time pressures often make it impractical. The inability to decompress off-ship and experience local environments adds to feelings of confinement and mental fatigue.



Finally, the emotional toll of prolonged contracts and limited connectivity only deepen the sense of disconnection from loved ones. Seafarers reported heightened levels of homesickness and emotional strain, with many calling for better communication options and more balanced rotation schedules.



Despite these pressure points, many seafarers continue to find fulfilment in their work. Strong teamwork and camaraderie were frequently mentioned as key to a positive onboard atmosphere. Many seafarers also enjoy the technical aspects of their roles, while the ability to support their families financially is a major motivator. 



Ben Bailey, Director of Programme, The Mission to Seafarers, said: “Addressing challenges like ageing vessels, inadequate training, and restricted shore leave is not just a matter of welfare - it’s essential for operational performance and future-proofing the sector. When seafarers are overburdened with the constant demands of maintaining ageing ships, often with limited support with antiquated tools, their morale and wellbeing clearly suffer, as does the safety and efficiency of operations on board. 



“These issues are clearly interlinked. Neglecting seafarers compromises the reliability of global maritime trade. If we want a resilient and sustainable industry, we must act decisively, by investing in vessel upkeep, prioritising targeted, hands-on training, and ensuring crews have access to rest, support, and meaningful connections ashore and at home. As the Seafarers Happiness Index marks its 10th year, these latest findings are a powerful reminder that the human element remains the foundation of maritime success. The health of our workforce cannot be an afterthought.”
 


Thom Herbert, Idwal Key Account Manager and Crew Welfare Advocate, Idwal, commented: "The Q1 2025 results of the Seafarers Happiness Index reinforce what we regularly encounter during vessel inspections: that the lived experience of seafarers is shaped not only by structural conditions, but also by how well crew welfare is prioritised day to day. While there are signs of progress in some areas, too many seafarers still face barriers to shore leave, rest, and mental health support. These are not just wellbeing issues, they are operational ones, too. 
  


"At Idwal, we continue to see how vessel condition, crewing culture, and management practices intersect. A healthy, supported crew is essential to a well-performing ship. That’s why we support the Seafarers Happiness Index; it offers a critical voice from sea to shore, helping the industry align policy with the people who make global trade possible."



Yves Vandenborn, Head of Loss Prevention Asia-Pacific, NorthStandard, added: “First of all, congratulations to Seafarers Happiness Index for marking its 10th anniversary in 2025.  This meaningful survey has given so many seafarers the opportunity to highlight what is good in their working environment and what can be improved. It is good to see that the SHI results for Q1 2025 have slightly improved to 6.98 from 6.91 in the previous quarter. While it is positive to see strong teamwork, pride in the profession, and some improvements in connectivity, there continue to be key challenges that shouldn’t be ignored. 



“Persistent overwork, stagnant wages, and patchy welfare support continue to have a negative impact on morale. Social interaction - whether via shore leave, Wi-Fi, or onboard activities - remains vital, but we must better educate crews about the downsides: digital fatigue, security risks, and even onboard socialising needs careful management to avoid conflicts. If these persistent systemic issues remain unaddressed, seafarer wellbeing runs the risk of declining further. However, the industry has made progress in some areas and many still find pride and purpose in their careers.”