Working long hours is part of life at sea, but proper rest isn’t optional, it’s a safety requirement. The Maritime Labour Convention (2006) sets minimum rest standards: at least 10 hours in any 24-hour period and 77 hours in any 7-day period (usually in no more than two blocks, one of which is at least six hours). The Mission is committed to helping crews secure the rest they need and are entitled to.
How the Mission to Seafarers Helps with Fatigue
- Ship visits & wellbeing checks
Our chaplains and ship visitors check in with crews, listen for signs of fatigue, and help address issues early, before they become safety risks. - Quiet rest spaces ashore
Seafarers’ Centres offer calm places to switch off: lounges, Wi-Fi, showers, and practical comforts that make short shore time restorative. - 24/7 confidential support
If fatigue is affecting mood, relationships, or safety decisions, seafarers can speak with a chaplain via the Seafarers app for immediate, confidential support. - Mental health first aid & referrals
Our team is trained to provide initial support and connect seafarers to specialist services when fatigue links to stress, anxiety, or depression. - Know-your-rights guidance
We explain Maritime Labour Convention rest requirements and help crew document hours of rest accurately. - Advocacy & escalation
When patterns of excessive hours emerge, we can, at a seafarer’s request, raise concerns with the appropriate parties and signpost to unions or authorities, while protecting confidentiality. - Fatigue awareness for leaders
We share practical resources with officers and managers on watch scheduling, workload peaks, and creating a culture that respects rest.
