Tag: internet onboard

If COVID-19 has brought one seafaring issue to the forefront, it has been that of Internet onboard, as the extended time of remaining onboard along with increased stress due to COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a wider discussion on the need for connectivity with the outside world.  

A new video by CHIRP Maritime, under its latest safety initiative "Sea of Distractions", aims to inform of the misuse of personal devices (mob phones, mp4 players, tablets) whilst on duty in the workplace that may cause distraction with potentially serious safety implications.

The International Maritime Health Journal released a report focusing on seafarers' mental wellbeing and the effect of daily social media exposure on anxiety and depression disorders.

Following a situation where the crew of a flag-of-convenience vessel were left without the broadband access, Nautilus International asked the International Transport Workers' Federation to formally raise a breach of the Maritime Labour Convention with the International Labour Organization.

Internet onboard ships has been the single biggest game changer for seafarers around the world. However, it requires a clear understanding of positive and constructive behaviour and awareness to protect oneself online.

Digitalization can provide the ferry industry with both a reduction of operational costs and revenue increase, along with increased safety and crew efficiencies, a new report by global satellite communications provider Inmarsat reveals. 

An Australian-first initiative trialling Wi-Fi on cargo ships off the Port of Gladstone allows seafarers to connect up to 20 kilometres from the shoreline, boosting communication capabilities with their loved ones. 

Appearing in court on Tuesday, the Captain of the ill-fated MV Wakshio, which ran aground and split in two causing a major oil spill off Mauritius less than seven months ago, confirmed that he navigated the vessel closer to the shore to look for internet connection for the crew. 

The retention of seafarers is a major issue that shipping industry is currently dealing with. In regard to this matter, the most common factor that makes seafarers quit their job, is the lack of communication while onboard.

It is known that internet has dynamically entered into our daily lives within the years. In fact, internet has among others changed industries, business, education, communication, and the ways in which we interact with the others. However, when it comes to shipping industry, connectivity onboard has proved to effectively improve seafarers’ mental health and their overall wellbeing.