Crew Welfare Week: Top challenges concerning life onboard

Ship managers must address crew welfare and wellness by implementing comprehensive strategies and policies that promote a healthy work-life balance, experts emphasized during the recent Crew Welfare Week.

In a panel discussion moderated by Anastasia Kypriotaki, News Editor at SAFETY4SEA, it was highlighted that crew welfare has become a critical issue in recent years –especially following COVID-19 and ongoing geopolitical tensions, which have underscored the need to support the seafarers who keep global trade running and ensure the delivery of essential goods worldwide.

The following experts contributed to the discussion on crew welfare: Yofis Florentin, Founder & CEO, Learning Seaman; Capt. Christos Gianneios, Crew Manager, Niovis Shipping; Kostas Katsoulieris, P&I Claims Director – Greece, NorthStandard; Stavri Kleanthous, Wellbeing Services Manager, Oceanic and; Capt. John Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer, The Nautical Institute.

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Key welfare-related concerns

#1 Harsh working conditions

Opening the discussion, Yofis Florentin identified isolation as the foremost challenge faced by seafarers. “By isolation, we mean both physical and digital isolation, especially among the new generation. We’re essentially dealing with two realities: the physical world and the digital one.”

Another major concern is the extended periods away from family. Studies consistently rank this among the most pressing issues, as seafarers often worry about raising children remotely and being absent during important family moments.

Florentin also pointed to harsh working conditions, including vessel vibrations, the effects of geopolitical events, and cross-cultural barriers onboard.

“Having multiple nationalities and generations on the same vessel creates communication gaps, which impact mental health, well-being, and even onboard safety.”

Challenges can stem from both ship-specific factors (e.g. long work hours, poor nutrition, limited internet access, lack of shore leave) and core psychological factors (e.g. toxic leadership, discrimination, strained crew relationships, fatigue, and boredom).

#2 Communication and personal time

Capt. Christos Gianneios added that although internet connectivity is steadily improving thanks to services like Starlink, a lack of personal time in port remains a growing concern.

“Port stays are getting shorter, and with constant inspections and operations, seafarers have no time to rest or unwind. They arrive at port, but can’t enjoy it. That’s a serious problem.”

#3 Health and mental wellness

Kostas Katsoulieris highlighted ongoing concerns about mental and physical health, including limited access to quality healthcare and emerging infectious diseases.

“COVID-19 isn’t a distant memory; it’s still fresh for many seafarers. While technology has brought improvements, it can also be a double-edged sword—especially when bad news from home becomes a mental burden at sea.”

He warned about excessive screen time, which disrupts rest, and emphasized generational differences, particularly with younger crews who may be more vulnerable to mental fatigue.

Fatigue and mental health were concerns before COVID. During the pandemic, they worsened—and they’re even more serious now.

According to the Seafarers Happiness Index (Q1 2025), overall happiness dropped slightly from 6.9 to 6.8, reflecting persistent issues such as stress, isolation, and time away from family.

The importance of respect and psychological safety

All panelists agreed that seafarers need to feel seen, supported, and valued; both physically and emotionally.

Capt. John Lloyd stressed: “Respect transcends culture, religion, and nationality. If we foster mutual respect and effective communication, we improve both psychological safety and crew performance.”

Energy transition: A new pressure point

The maritime industry’s transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels is adding pressure to onboard operations and training requirements.

Capt. Lloyd explained: “We must eliminate ambiguity for seafarers. They should know the ship types, fuel types, and how to safely manage them, not just during bunkering, but throughout the operational cycle.”

He emphasized the importance of training everyone onboard on the risks of handling new fuels, including toxicity, flammability, and cryogenic hazards. “This is a heavy training burden—but it’s our responsibility. Not optional. With the right commitment, we can transition to a cleaner future professionally and safely.”

Innovations and trends in crew welfare

Kostas Katsoulieris flagged reduced socialization as an emerging concern driven by technological advancements. “We don’t want crew members isolating in their cabins. Some companies are even exploring safe forms of socializing, such as offering low-alcohol options like beer and wine—though this wouldn’t be viable for tankers or LNG vessels.”

Stavri Kleanthous added that digital innovation is reshaping welfare strategies.

“At Oceanic, we’re developing an onboard assistant to support daily reporting, procurement, and healthier food choices to improve well-being.”

She also highlighted digital learning platforms as a key tool for improving morale. “We’re not just offering training—we’re building confidence and encouraging personal progress.”

Technostress: The hidden cost of innovation

A recent study by the World Maritime University (WMU) revealed that new technologies—from decarbonization to autonomous systems—are contributing to a new type of anxiety, termed “techno-stress.”

Capt. John Lloyd echoed this, noting that while wearables, AI, and digital wellness platforms can improve life onboard, the key is balance.