The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) published Phase Three of its Social Interaction Matters Project (SIM), releasing research into the role of social interaction shaping seafarers’ wellbeing across superyachts, cruise ships, and commercial shipping. The study involved 176 seafarers cross six vessels, with each vessel participating for three months. Wellbeing surveys from PsyFyi and SeaQ, wearable technology from Fitbit, were used to collect data. The cross-industry research found that focused attention to social life on board, including have an appointed social ambassador, enhances morale, reduces stress, and strengthens team cohesion. ISWAN reports that these factors contribute to safer journeys, healthier crew, and an overall more inclusive onboard culture. ‘The SIM Project Phase Three report delivers one of the most comprehensive evidence bases to date on how social connection, fatigue and inclusion shape seafarer wellbeing and safety at sea. Drawing directly on the lived experiences of crews across multiple maritime sectors, the research moves beyond compliance to reveal what genuinely supports health, resilience and performance on board,” said Dr. Kate Pike, research lead. “Its findings offer practical, scalable recommendations for operators, regulators and vessel designers, linking wellbeing to safer operations and stronger social cohesion. For the maritime industry, the report provides a clear, research led roadmap for improving working lives at sea while strengthening operational safety and safety culture.” Other key findings include women crew in the cruise and superyacht industry being differently impacted by demands, reporting higher levels of mental and physical exhaustion than their men counterparts, even after accounting for workload and sleep. Differences across rank were found for officers who reported lower social engagement, with perceived professional boundaries influencing opportunities for connection and participation in onboard culture. “We are pleased to have participated in this research, which provided valuable insights into crew wellbeing onboard. We welcome the opportunity to recognize and address key areas that enhance wellbeing and performance for seafarers, such as the importance of connectivity and social interaction,” said Katie Lea, director of culture and engagement for V.Group. “Since the time of the research, Starlink has now been installed across all vessels in the INSW fleet to improve connectivity. We have also implemented a Workplace Culture training program focused on strengthening wellbeing leadership, teamwork, and crew relationships.” ISWAN is an international not-for-profit maritime organization that works to ensure seafarers, and their families have the support and resources they need to respond to challenges of life at sea. They provide free helpline services, educational resources, relief funds, and humanitarian support. Download the full report here.