Seafarer happiness improves, yet safety risks are growing
The latest Q2 2025 Seafarers Happiness Index has shown the highest well-being scores in years, yet behind this positive note, serious safety issues are continuing to be flagged.
According to The Mission to Seafarers’ report, overall happiness reached 7.54 out of 10 this quarter, an increase from 6.98 in Q1. This marks a positive recovery from a few years ago, in May 2022, MIN reported on a turbulent year that saw the lowest levels (5.85) of seafarer happiness for eight years.
2025 report’s main respondents were male seafarers (89 per cent), primarily working on bulk carriers (41 per cent) and tankers (48 per cent). When it comes to happiness by sector, cruise ship crews lead with a score of 8.4 out of 10, while Ro-Ro seafarers report the lowest at 6.8.
Factors contributing to the figures are crew camaraderie, better food, improved fitness facilities, and more reliable internet connectivity, which help seafarers stay connected and lift morale.
However, seafarers are raising critical red flags about personal safety and dangerous working conditions, with preventable accidents happening far too often. Examples of accidents include working at heights, entering enclosed spaces, electrocution, and being struck by moving objects.
One particular issue at play is the revealing of the troubling misuse of ‘riding squads’, with crews circumventing vital safety training, leading to unqualified individuals being put in risky operational roles.
Ben Bailey, director of programme, The Mission to Seafarers, comments: “While the Q2 2025 results show real progress, there are some worrying safety concerns that need addressing. As seafarers become more vocal, connected, and engaged, they are raising questions the industry can no longer afford to ignore.”
Seafarers also point to the fact that e-learning modules are replacing hands-on training, highlighting a box-ticking nature that may lead to dire consequences. While workloads slightly improved in this quarter, many seafarers continue to point to challenges in crew resources, rising administrative burdens, and reduced shore leave, further complicating life onboard.
Alongside viable concerns, seafarers have positively communicated the strength of teamwork onboard, as well as the pride and professionalism they take in their work. But, as Bailey comments: “The improvement in overall happiness should not obscure the rising concern around safety, training integrity, and manning. Now is the time for industry leaders, regulators, and shipowners to act.”
