Fewer people choose a career at sea, and those who do want more than just a paycheck.This is the result of a study conducted by The Hood, a maritime community platform for seafarers' social connectivity and professional development.Josephine Le, founder of The Hood, said direct interviews with seafarers revealed they prefer shipboard duties with social connectivity and salary.'These are the two most important things they look for in a job. It's not just about access to social media; it's about feeling part of something bigger. Staying in touch with family and the wider industry makes a real difference to their experience at sea,' Le said.This reflects a survey conducted by the Mission to Seafarers in 2024.The Seafarers Happiness Index for the fourth quarter of 2024 has dropped from 7.16 in Q3 to 6.91 in Q4. This is attributed to restrictive port policies, unreliable onboard Wi-Fi and stagnant wages.'With long contracts at sea, limited shore leave and unreliable onboard Wi-Fi, isolation remains one of the biggest challenges for crew. Recruitment and retention issues continue to grow, particularly in engineering and officer roles, as fewer young people choose a career at sea.'Younger seafarers, in particular, want more than just a paycheck. They are looking for fair pay, career progression and a stronger sense of community. Having access to networks that provide career advice, job opportunities and mental health support can make a real difference,' Le said. An interviewed cadet, Martina Clara Caditan, explained: 'The seafaring community feels more connected when we have a place to share knowledge, explore opportunities, and support each other, especially when starting out in the industry.'Recognizing this shift, The Hood stepped forward in offering a platform designed exclusively for seafarers, bridging the gap between social connectivity and career development. Unlike traditional recruitment methods, it connects seafarers directly with employers, offers e-learning, and fosters a professional community that understands their challenges.Starting with a dual social/professional profile feature, The Hood offers a free Career Hub page, document storage for CVs, dedicated well-being support, e-learning opportunities, industry news, an upcoming e-shop, and resources designed specifically for seafarers.'The maritime industry thrives on its people, but too often, seafarers feel disconnected from the very industry they power. The Hood is more than a job platform; it's a community where seafarers can belong, develop their careers, and support each other,' Le concluded.
