Seafarers' happiness Index for Q4 2024 Released
A Decline in Overall HappinessThe latest results from the Seafarers' Happiness index (SHI), which measures the well-being of seafarers worldwide, highlight a noticeable drop in happiness levels during the final quarter of 2024. After consistent improvements earlier in the year, the average happiness score fell from 7.16 in Q3 to 6.91 in Q4. This marks the first decline of the year and underscores ongoing challenges faced by the maritime workforce.Key Challenges IdentifiedThe report points to several factors contributing to the decline. Shore leave opportunities continue to be a significant issue, with the score dropping from 6.52 in Q3 to 6.12 in Q4. Many seafarers report frustration with limited opportunities to disembark at ports, citing port policies and logistical barriers as key obstacles. The lack of proper access to shore leave is not only a logistical inconvenience but also contributes to feelings of isolation and mental fatigue.Connectivity issues also remain a pressing concern. Despite many vessels offering daily data allowances, inconsistent internet bandwidth limits meaningful communication with family and friends. Seafarers describe this as a "Schrödinger’s Connectivity" problem, where internet promises are not fulfilled in practice, leaving them feeling disconnected from loved ones.Workload and stagnant wages further compound the situation. Increased administrative burdens, inspection requirements, and tight port schedules have led to higher stress levels. Wages have failed to keep pace with inflation and rising living costs, further dampening morale among the crew. Seafarers also expressed dissatisfaction with overtime compensation and hidden costs that reduce their take-home pay.Detailed FindingsGeneral happiness levels fell to 6.91, reflecting an overall decline in satisfaction at sea. Connectivity dropped to 7.05, while shore leave experienced the sharpest fall. Despite these challenges, some areas, such as crew interaction, remained relatively stable, with scores like 7.6 indicating a sense of camaraderie among crew members. However, the workload saw a slight drop to 6.59, indicating growing pressure on seafarers to meet operational demands.Voices from the CrewMany seafarers shared personal insights into their experiences:- Frustration with port policies was a recurring theme, with some describing ports as actively creating barriers to shore leave.
- Complaints about the quality of onboard connectivity highlighted how poor internet infrastructure affects morale and mental well-being.