The International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) recently hosted the ISWAN – India Seminar 2025 under the theme “Attract, Retain, Sustain: Supporting the Wellbeing of Seafarers and Their Families.” The seminar brought together seafarers, cadets, families, maritime educators, industry leaders, policymakers, and welfare organisations to address the growing need for people-centred strategies in the maritime sector.
Seminar Objectives and Context
At the core of the discussions was the understanding that attracting and retaining seafarers requires more than technical competence. Long-term sustainability of the workforce depends on holistic support systems that recognise the emotional, psychological, and social realities of life at sea and the crucial role played by families ashore.
Opening the seminar, former senior government officials and maritime leaders highlighted the importance of structured induction, early career guidance, and consistent welfare support. Particular emphasis was placed on the need to involve families from the outset, recognising their influence on seafarers’ resilience, motivation, and career longevity.
Maritime education and training were identified as key enablers of sustainable careers. Speakers stressed that future-ready seafarers must be equipped not only with operational skills but also with emotional preparedness, communication abilities, and coping strategies to navigate the demands of modern shipping.
Government representatives reaffirmed their commitment to seafarer welfare, underlining the importance of collaboration between regulators, employers, and welfare organisations. Strengthening partnerships and aligning welfare initiatives with national maritime priorities were highlighted as essential steps in building a resilient and competitive seafaring workforce.
Industry participants echoed these sentiments, emphasising the responsibility of ship managers and operators to foster supportive environments both onboard and ashore. Effective communication between vessels, shore staff, and families was identified as a decisive factor in improving wellbeing and reducing attrition.
Panel Discussions: Practical Insights and Recommendations
A key highlight of the seminar was the launch of three new initiatives designed to support seafarers and shore-based teams at critical stages of their careers. These programmes aim to ease the transition from training to shipboard life, strengthen the capacity of shore staff to respond to wellbeing concerns, and provide practical guidance to families navigating the challenges of a seafaring lifestyle.
One initiative focuses on induction support for cadets and newly joined seafarers, helping them build confidence, emotional resilience, and realistic expectations before their first voyage. Another programme targets shore-based personnel, equipping them with tools in communication, psychological first aid, and coordinated support for seafarers and families. The third initiative introduces a comprehensive family handbook offering guidance on communication, emotional wellbeing, financial planning, crisis management, and reintegration after voyages.
The seminar also provided a platform for seafarers and their families to share personal experiences. These firsthand accounts highlighted the everyday challenges of separation, uncertainty, and mental strain, while reinforcing the value of timely support, understanding employers, and informed families.
Panel discussions explored two critical themes: the importance of strong foundations during a seafarer’s first voyage and the role of shore-based emotional support systems. Speakers agreed that mentorship, structured induction, and family engagement are central to improving confidence, safety, and long-term retention in the industry.
The event concluded with a strong consensus that placing seafarers and their families at the centre of decision-making is no longer optional but essential. By integrating wellbeing into training, operations, and organisational culture, the maritime industry can attract new talent, retain experienced professionals, and sustain a healthy, motivated workforce for the future.
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Source: ISWAN
