Sailors’ Society Launches 24/7 Helpline for Female Seafarers

International maritime charity Sailors’ Society has introduced a dedicated helpline designed to support female seafarers.

Launched on International Women’s Day (March 8), the helpline operates 24/7 and enables female cadets and seafarers to confidentially speak with a female member of the Sailors’ Society team.

This service aims to offer emotional support, crisis assistance, and peer-to-peer connections, addressing the specific challenges women face in the maritime industry.

According to a study by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA), women account for just 2% of the global crewing workforce, with the majority working in the cruise sector.

“This is a big step forward in our care and support for female cadets and seafarers – a much-needed service in an industry where female seafarers are a striking minority,” said Sailors’ Society CEO, Sara Baade.

“Being a seafarer is challenging. But there are unique challenges to being a female seafarer, and we know some women may feel more comfortable speaking to another woman. This helpline, along with our female peer-to-peer support groups, allows them to lean on other women who understand what they are going through,” Baade added.

The initiative is funded by marine insurance provider Skuld.

“Our industry must work together to increase gender equality and attract a diverse workforce to ensure it stays competitive in an uncertain world where female seafarers remain a significant minority. Together, we can create a safer environment for all women at sea,” said Ståle Hansen, president and CEO of Skuld.