Seafarers’ overall happiness showed a modest but encouraging improvement at the end of 2025, according to the Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI) published by The Mission to Seafarers.
The Q4 2025 score rose to 7.26 out of 10, up from 7.05 in the previous quarter, signaling a
cautious recovery after a volatile year at sea.
Conducted quarterly by The Mission to Seafarers in partnership with Idwal and NorthStandard, and supported by Inmarsat, the SHI provides vital insights into life at sea and the long-term sustainability of the maritime workforce.
While the overall trend is positive, the index continues to highlight persistent challenges. Key concerns throughout 2025 included inconsistent treatment of seafarers in ports, doubts about compliance with work- and resthour requirements, health risks at sea, anxiety about exposure to sanctions and geopolitical risks beyond crew control, as well as operational issues such as “riding squads” bypassing certification requirements and the erosion of core navigation skills.
The SHI also highlighted long contracts and widening disparities across age, rank and gender, raising questions about the profession’s long-term sustainability. Operational intensity continues to rise as reduced crew numbers and expanding administrative demands place greater pressure on seafarers.
Connectivity, while essential for wellbeing, declined with many describing the strain of being “digitally present but physically absent”.
There were, however, areas for improvement. Seafarers reported higher levels of general happiness, finding satisfaction in their work, colleagues and professional identity. Wages and workload management also showed some recovery, though neither returned to the stronger levels seen earlier in the year.
Despite these challenges, seafarers continue to demonstrate resilience and professionalism. However, the report cautions that resilience has its limits. Sustainable maritime operations depend on a workforce that is properly rested, adequately trained, well supported and professionally valued.
The message from the SHI remains clear: unhappiness is unsustainable, and meaningful
action is needed to secure the future of the maritime workforce.
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