The rising tide of fatigue among seafarers: A growing maritime safety crisis

Despite international regulations and monitoring efforts, fatigue among seafarers persists and is on the rise.

A study conducted by Cardiff University’s Seafarers International Research Centre in 2025 revealed that over 33% of seafarers working on cargo ships reported that they were not getting enough sleep. In the survey, seafarers admitted to falsifying work and rest hour records to avoid repercussions, this highlights a systemic issue in enforcement. Furthermore, Senior officers experienced the highest levels of work-related anxiety, contributing to poor sleep. Other organisations have conducted studies on the subject. A report produced by Inmarsat in 2024 highlighted a record 142 cases of crew abandonment in 2023, with the primary cause of the abandonment being fatigue.

It should be noted that fatigue in the maritime industry is more than just tiredness. It encompasses physical and mental exhaustion that impairs a seafarer’s ability to perform safely and effectively. Common causes include:

Long working hours
Shift work
Noise, vibration, and vessel motion
Inadequate rest periods between shifts
Sustained workdays without adequate rest days
Work-related stress and anxiety

Casualty incidents related to fatigue are not rare. A recent case involving a cargo ship grounding in Norway after the watch officer fell asleep on duty is a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of fatigue.

Long term fatigue can cause significant health and safety implications such as:

Accidents and injuries
Impaired decision-making and slower reactions are contributing factors in maritime accidents, including collisions, groundings and fall incidents.
Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and sleeping disorders
Long-term health problems, including cardiovascular disease and a weakened immune system, which may increase susceptibility to illness.

This may lead to decreased job performance and satisfaction which can result in higher rates of crew turnover and early retirement from sea careers.

Despite the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) mandating minimum rest hours, enforcement is inconsistent. Many seafarers work under precarious contracts and fear job loss if they report violations of these contracts. Port calls, inspections, and administrative duties have a tendency to eat into rest periods, making compliance difficult.

Fatigue among seafarers is not just a personal health issue, it’s a systemic safety hazard with global implications. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, addressing fatigue must become a top priority. Without decisive action, the risks to both human life and maritime operations will only continue to grow. Therefore, a more proactive approach needs to be deployed to combat fatigue at sea by: