Danica Crewing Specialists has launched its annual Seafarers’ Survey for 2026, inviting seafarers worldwide to share their experiences to support more effective crewing strategies across the maritime industry.
The survey forms part of Danica’s ongoing efforts to provide data-driven insights to shipowners and operators, helping them better understand and respond to key challenges around recruitment, retention, and remuneration. By gathering direct feedback from those working onboard, the survey aims to support more informed decision-making in an increasingly competitive and complex crew employment market.
The survey is also a key part of Danica’s ongoing commitment to improving standards across the maritime industry by listening directly to those working onboard vessels. It invites seafarers to provide feedback on a range of topics, including working conditions, wellbeing, job satisfaction and future career opportunities.
These insights are vital for shipping companies to understand the current state of the crew employment market, informing recruitment and talent development strategies while helping to mitigate risks associated with vessel crewing.
The launch builds on findings from Danica’s 2025 Seafarer Survey, which revealed a profession under increasing pressure. Stress levels among seafarers are rising, with 44% reporting stress during their last contract, up from 35% the previous year, while 16% said they had experienced mental depression. In addition, 42% of respondents expect to retire from sea before the age of 55, raising concerns about long-term workforce sustainability.
At the same time, the 2025 survey highlighted areas of progress. More employers are investing in crew welfare, with private medical insurance now covering 24% of seafarers and their families, a 33% increase since 2019. Training satisfaction has also improved, with 64% of respondents rating it as “very” or “extremely useful,” and new areas such as cybersecurity emerging. Retention is also strengthening, with more seafarers choosing to stay longer with their current employers. However, challenges remain, including late salary payments, with 30% of seafarers reporting delays and 9% stating they did not receive full payment.
Henrik Jensen, founder and CEO, Danica Crewing Specialists, said: “What stands out from our 2025 survey is that improvements alone are not enough. Rising stress levels and earlier retirement expectations suggest there are deeper structural challenges the industry still needs to address.”
He added: “Too many companies are today crewing their vessels using only one or a couple of nationalities. To mitigate crew shortage risks, the crew intake should be spread across more countries including emerging crew recruitment markets. In addition, of course, training young talent through cadet programs must be part of any strategy for sustainable future crew supply.
“We strongly encourage all seafarers to take part in this year’s survey. Their experiences and perspectives are essential in helping us and the wider industry understand what is working, where improvements are needed, and how we can build a better future for those at sea.”
The 2026 Seafarers’ Survey is designed to be quick and accessible, taking only a few minutes to complete, with all responses fully anonymous to ensure honest and open feedback.
To see the findings in the 2025 Seafarer Survey, click here:
For seafarers, the 2026 survey is now open and can be accessed here:
Danica extends its sincere thanks to all seafarers who take the time to participate.
Diptesh Chohan
