A recent study by the ITF Seafarers’ Trust (ITFST), analyzed by the World Maritime University (WMU), reveals that many seafarers are still facing significant challenges in accessing shore leave, even as Covid-19 travel restrictions have eased since 2022. Surveying nearly 6,000 seafarers globally from May to December 2024, the research points to a worsening trend, particularly affecting lower-ranked crew members and those on specific vessel types.
Key findings of the study indicate that over 25% of seafarers did not get any shore leave during their contracts, which typically lasted around 6.6 months. Additionally, about one-third managed to go ashore only once or twice. The highest rates of shore leave denial were reported by crew members on bulk carriers and container ships, with engine and deck department workers, particularly those in lower ranks, experiencing the most significant restrictions. This situation adversely impacts mental health, adding to the stressful working conditions seafarers already endure.
Danny McGowan, head of international relations at Nautilus, emphasized the study’s consistency with previous reports on seafarer recruitment and retention, highlighting that difficulties in accessing shore leave have long been a barrier to the maritime industry’s attractiveness. McGowan warned that without decisive action from shipowners and governments, the ongoing shortage of seafarers could escalate into a full-blown crisis.
The study identified major populations of affected seafarers from countries such as India, China, and the Philippines, followed by Indonesia, Ukraine, Turkey, Russia, and Croatia. Despite a substantial percentage—nearly 75%—of vessels spending one to three days in port, many crew members face substantial obstacles to shore leave. Barriers include fatigue from heavy workloads, port restrictions, company policies, visa challenges, and often costly transport options in cases where ports are secured.
Younger, less experienced seafarers are particularly affected, facing more frequent denials of shore leave compared to their senior counterparts. The study highlighted ongoing challenges despite the provisions of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, intended to guarantee shore leave. The fast pace of port turnarounds, heavy workloads, and various restrictions remain unaddressed by authorities.
To improve the situation, workers’ representatives are proposing amendments to strengthen seafarers’ rights regarding shore leave. This topic will be discussed at The Fifth Meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee of the MLC in Geneva in April 2025. The International Maritime Organization’s FAL Convention mandates that seafarers should be granted shore leave whenever feasible and prohibits discrimination based on nationality or rank. The ITFST’s findings underscore the systemic and multifaceted nature of the issue, calling for collective action from all stakeholders involved in the maritime industry.
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