Access to shore leave for seafarers has steadily declined since the Covid scare, with new studies confirming the trend and raising concerns about crew welfare, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.
A 2024 survey by the World Maritime University found that 25 per cent of 5,879 seafarers had no shore leave during an average 6.6-month contract. Of those who did, 47 per cent spent less than three hours ashore. The University warned that shore leave is becoming rare and at risk of disappearing.
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index and a 2025 survey by the ITF Seafarers' Trust echoed these findings. The ITF survey, covering 83 organizations in 25 countries, reported a 61 per cent drop in time spent at seafarers' centres since 2020. Most visits now last under two hours.
Contributing factors include reduced manning levels, faster turnaround times, tighter security, and port operation changes. Welfare groups say these conditions hinder seafarers' ability to rest, connect with others, and access essential services.
Katie Higginbottom of the ITF Seafarers' Trust urged regulators and the shipping industry to prioritize shore leave and balance operational demands with crew wellbeing. She called for collective responsibility to protect seafarers' rights.
The report warns of a vicious cycle: declining shore leave reduces demand for welfare services, which in turn leads to fewer facilities. The ITF is calling for reviews of work/rest hours and manning rules to ensure humane labour conditions.
Dr Jason Zuidema of the International Christian Maritime Association said restoring shore leave as a standard practice requires cooperation among welfare providers, regulators, and industry leaders.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9251100000143
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