seafarer

A seafarer is a person who works aboard ships that navigate the seas and oceans. The term covers crew on merchant vessels, fishing fleets, passenger ships, and other floating operations. In practice, it refers to paid personnel working at sea rather than casual travelers, and overlaps with terms such as mariner or sailor.

Seafarers perform roles across deck, engine, catering, and support functions. Deck officers, including masters and mates, handle navigation and safety; engineers maintain propulsion and power systems; ratings perform general duties; hotel and catering staff on passenger ships are also seafarers.

Training and regulation: Seafarers commonly require certification under the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention. National licensing, medical certificates, and periodic drills are standard requirements; training covers navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, safety, and security.

Working life and welfare: Seafaring typically involves long voyages, irregular hours, and extended time away from home. Seafarers face hazards such as severe weather, piracy, accidents, and health risks related to confinement. The industry emphasizes safety protocols, crew welfare, and repatriation at the end of contracts.

Legal framework and economic role: The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) sets minimum rights and protections for seafarers. International bodies such as the International Labour Organization and the International Maritime Organization oversee standards, safety, and pollution prevention. Seafarers enable global trade by manning the world's merchant fleets; the workforce is multinational and concentrated in certain regions.