Seafarer mental health and why travel planning matters more than ever 

Life at sea comes with unique challenges 

For seafarers, the reality of work is unlike any other profession. Long contracts, isolation from loved ones, and demanding working conditions are part of everyday life. When irregular crew changes or delayed travel are added to the mix, the impact on mental health can become severe. 

Seafarer wellbeing has rightly become a priority for shipowners, operators, and regulators alike. But while solutions often focus on onboard conditions, efficient crew travel planning plays a surprisingly important role in safeguarding mental health. From clear schedules to reliable transfers, how travel is managed directly influences morale, safety, and performance. 

This article explores why seafarer mental health is under growing scrutiny, how travel disruptions add pressure, and what companies can do to support their crews through smarter travel management. 

Why mental health matters in the marine sector 

Seafaring remains one of the most stressful and fatiguing professions. According to a recent survey of 400 seafarers across 29 nationalities, 44% reported increased stress, and 40% reported increased fatigue, particularly as decarbonisation demands ramp up pressures onboard (Maritime Executive, 2024). While the shift towards greener operations is vital for the future of the industry, it often means additional responsibilities for crews. Seafarers are expected to monitor new equipment, adapt to alternative fuels, comply with stricter reporting standards, and manage new operational procedures, all on top of already demanding workloads. These levels of strain are compounded by work environments that often include extended shifts, noisy and crowded living quarters, and prolonged periods away from family and friends. 

The consequences of poor mental health among seafarers are far from abstract. A comprehensive scoping review in BMC Public Health found that seafarers face significantly elevated levels of stress, depressive symptoms, and burnout. These psychological strains contribute directly to safety risks, crew turnover, and diminished on-board performance. Fatigue has been identified as the most prevalent safety-related issue by more than 70% of respondents in global studies (Seafarers’ Trust, 2023). 

In response, regulators and unions have intensified their focus on seafarer welfare. Industry organisations are increasingly demanding that shipowners and operators take more proactive measures to monitor, report, and address mental health risks. The rising scrutiny isn’t purely moral; it’s practical. A workforce struggling with anxiety or burnout-related errors can affect safety, efficiency, and ultimately, the bottom line. 

How travel planning affects crew wellbeing 

Efficient travel planning can ease many of these pressures. When crew changes are delayed, fatigue and frustration quickly build up. Unclear or constantly changing schedules create stress not only for seafarers but also for their families, who are left uncertain about when their loved ones will return. 

By contrast, for crew joining a vessel, arriving well-rested is essential to ensure safety and operational readiness. Tight transfers can build pressure and uncertainty during the journey, while overnight layovers and long stopovers often add to travel fatigue. Reliable and predictable transfers, on the other hand, reduce burnout, improve morale, and help seafarers step onboard focused and ready to perform at their best. 

Best practices for mental-health-supportive travel 

Companies looking to support seafarer mental health through better travel planning can start with three practical steps. First, prioritise transparent communication, ensuring crews are updated quickly when changes are unavoidable. Second, plan comfortable layovers, providing access to quality rest facilities and accommodation during transfers. Finally, work with a marine specialist who understands the complexity of crew rotations and design every arrangement with welfare in mind. 

“ Bringing well-being in the way your business deals with crew travel ultimately saves your ship operations money. Our teams carefully balance the most relaxing route options with the most comfortable airlines, without significant cost increases. The added value your crew drives, when they arrive well rested, relaxed, and fit for the job, is simply priceless. ”  

Jochem Hemink 

Head of Shipping Sales Europe and Asia 

How ATPI supports crew well-being 

At ATPI Marine Travel, we understand that every decision in travel planning affects the people at the heart of your operations. That’s why our solutions are designed to reduce uncertainty and stress for seafarers, while delivering cost efficiency and compliance for your business. Our approach includes: 

• 24/7 global support, so seafarers and crew managers are never left without assistance. 

• Marine and offshore fares, offering cost savings and maximum flexibility. 

• End-to-end crew rotation management, simplifying complex travel arrangements. 

• Digital tools for real-time updates, giving clarity and confidence to crews and their families. 

Seafarer wellbeing isn’t just a compliance requirement; it’s a responsibility. By investing in efficient, reliable travel management, companies can protect the mental health of their people while ensuring smoother operations and long-term retention.