Fred. Olsen has announced that it is the first company line to sign the Merchant Navy Welfare Board’s (MNWB) Seafarer Pledge, reinforcing its long-standing focus on crew wellbeing, career development and the future of maritime talent.
The Seafarer Pledge is jointly funded by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Trinity House and the Merchant Navy Association.
Leanna Lakes, technical and marine operations director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we recognize the invaluable contribution they make both to our business and to the wider maritime sector.”
“We are proud to be the first cruise line to sign the Seafarer Pledge and to stand alongside organizations across the maritime industry in recognizing the vital role seafarers play every day,” added Lakes.
“By becoming a signatory, we are reaffirming our commitment to supporting the wellbeing, development and career opportunities of those who make our journeys possible, while helping to create a safer, fairer and more supportive maritime industry for generations to come.”
Sharon Coveney, deputy CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, which is the UK association of maritime welfare charities, added: “We’re proud to see that over 80 organizations have signed up to the pledge, including Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. It shows a growing recognition across the maritime sector that we all have a role to play in improving standards for our seafarers, who underpin global trade.”
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines said that as a signatory, it is pledging to take practical action to:
- Support career progression
- Ease transitions between sea and shore-based roles
- Recognize maritime skills and experience, and
- Inspire future generations to consider careers at sea.
The company stated in a press release that this year, it also introduced a dedicated Crew Welfare Officer role to coordinate wellbeing initiatives across its fleet.
In addition, it welcomed more than 200 young people aboard its ships and into its shoreside offices for educational visits and hands-on experiences.
