A new global survey from Inmarsat among nearly 400 seafarers shows that onboard internet has gone from being a staff benefit to a fundamental part of daily life at sea. Many even describe their ship as a “floating home”.
On average, seafarers spend 8 percent of their annual salary on connectivity – half at home, half on board. Video calls, voice, and messages to family are clearly the most important activity, and the vast majority experience a significant positive effect on their mental well-being, especially during long voyages. But at the same time, over 80 percent report that they often exceed their data limits, and many are dissatisfied with both quality and price, according to Splash’s report on the survey.
Security is also a growing concern: 83 percent fear for data security on board, and one in nine has experienced hacking or data loss.
With the new updates to the MLC (which is the global “working environment law” for shipping) in 2025, digital access will become a regulated right. The industry is now calling for fixed, global standards for minimum bandwidth, coverage, and price transparency. Several players – from RINA to large shipmanagers – believe that internet should be equated with other central welfare standards in the ISM system.
But the digital development also has a downside. Several point to the risk of increased isolation when seafarers retreat to their cabins with personal devices. Therefore, a balance is called for between digital contact with home and social life on board.
However, technology is running ahead of regulation. New satellite-based solutions – such as upcoming phones with built-in satellite connectivity – will soon make constant connection the norm. This will have a direct impact on recruitment and retention: younger seafarers already ask about wifi more often than about salary.
-emte
