Following COVID-19 outbreak, Inmarsat and the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) collaborated and launched a call service for seafarers onboard vessels.
In fact, the initiative goals to advance seafarer wellbeing and make sure that they keep in contact with their families during this unprecedented pandemic.
In light of the above, Roger Harris, ISWAN’s Executive Director commented:
We are delighted to be working with Inmarsat to bring our helpline service to even more seafarers during this crisis. Offering free access to SeafarerHelp on Fleet Hotspot will make it easier for crew on board these vessels to access support and assistance wherever they are in the world, day or night.
What is more, through their cooperation, Inmarsat offers free access of ISWAN’s SeafarerHelp portal and live chat function via the company’s onboard WiFi portal, Fleet Hotspot to every crewmemeber.
At the same time, seafarers which are stranded in ports with no internet access, are provided with satellite phones.
Inmarsat recognises the unprecedented situation facing seafarers and their need for certainty in communication, as the global maritime industry responds to the challenges of COVID-19. These new initiatives, together with those we have already launched, alleviate one of the core concerns crews face as they go about the business of keeping world trade moving day-in, day-out.
…Ronald Spithout, President, Inmarsat Maritime concluded.
