Seafarer happiness has fallen for a third consecutive quarter, according to the latest Seafarers Happiness Index (SHI), published by The Mission to Seafarers with Inmarsat and Idwal. The Q3 2026 score of 6.81/10 is down from 6.87 in Q2 and 7.26 at the end of 2025.
Six of the ten measures fell. Those linked to life aboard improved, while those that depend on the ship–shore interface – connectivity, shore leave, wages and welfare ashore – all deteriorated.
Interaction with fellow crew rose to 7.70, the highest-scoring measure, with seafarers repeatedly describing supportive crews as “family”.
The report warns that this cohesion is increasingly absorbing failures elsewhere, and the industry risks mistaking that adaptability for acceptable working conditions.
Shore leave remains the lowest-scoring measure, falling from 5.72 to 5.46, eroded by shorter port stays, remote terminals, security restrictions and minimum crewing. One respondent reported no shore leave across four consecutive contracts.
Port calls that should offer recovery have become the most intense part of the voyage. “In port, we get slammed with dealing with various cargo, regulatory, and husbandry items, all while the office is pushing for the shortest turnaround time,” said one seafarer.
Connectivity recorded the sharpest fall, from 7.46 to 6.89 – not because technology is failing, but because expectations have risen. Seafarers now ask whether access is affordable and reliable enough to support family life, with data caps forcing crews to ration calls home.
Ben Bailey, Director of Programme, The Mission to Seafarers, said: “Seafarers are telling us that their crewmates are holding them together, and that should give us pause. Strong onboard relationships are something to celebrate, but they cannot be a substitute for proper support ashore. When shore leave disappears for contract after contract and calling home has to be rationed, we are asking crews to absorb problems the industry should be fixing. The resilience they are displaying is a clear warning.”
(ILO photo of seafarer)