1 in 4 Seafarers Still Denied Shore Leave, ITF New Study Reveals

A recent study conducted by the ITF Seafarers’​ Trust (ITFST) and analysed by the World Maritime University (WMU) reveals that a significant number of seafarers continue to face restrictions on shore leave, despite the easing of Covid-19-related travel barriers since 2022.

The research, which surveyed nearly 6,000 seafarers worldwide, shows the impact is greater on those in lower ranks or onboard certain types of vessels.

Key barriers to shore leave are:fatigue from heavy workloads while in port , port restrictions, company policies, visa challenges , charging for shore leave or expensive private transport where port terminals are closed.

The ability of seafarers to take shore leave has been seriously eroded and may even be facing extinction. This research aims to quantify the current levels of shore leave in terms of frequency and length of time spent ashore and to identify the barriers.

In May 2024, the ITF Seafarers’ Trust designed and launched an online survey of seafarers to gauge the current situation in relation to seafarers’ access to shore leave. Almost 6000 seafarers responded. The results were then shared with World Maritime University for academic analysis.

The main purpose of this research is to quantify shore leave frequency and time spent ashore. Further, identifying the main barriers to shore leave provides an extensive picture of the difficulties to overcome.

While recommendations are not made in the report, the outcome of the survey is expected to trigger discussion and action around the implementation of MLC, 2006 Regulation 4.4.