Fred. Olsen Becomes First Cruise Line to Sign Seafarer Pledge
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has become the first cruise line to sign the Merchant Navy Welfare Board’s (MNWB) Seafarer Pledge, underlining its commitment to crew welfare, professional development and the future maritime workforce.
The Seafarer Pledge is jointly funded by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Trinity House and the Merchant Navy Association.
Fred. Olsen Highlights Commitment to Seafarers
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.”
More than 80 organizations have now committed to the initiative.
Sharon Coveney, deputy CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, the UK association representing 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.”
Seafarer Pledge Focuses on Careers and Development
By becoming a signatory, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has committed to taking practical steps in several areas affecting current and future maritime professionals.
The cruise line has pledged to:
- Support opportunities for career progression
- Make transitions between careers at sea and shoreside positions easier
- Recognize the skills and experience gained through maritime careers
- Encourage future generations to consider working at sea
The commitments form part of a wider effort to support seafarers throughout their careers while also attracting new talent to the maritime industry.
Cruise Line Expands Crew Welfare Initiatives
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines said it has also taken additional steps to strengthen support for its crew this year. According to the company’s press release, it introduced a dedicated Crew Welfare Officer position to coordinate wellbeing programs across its fleet.
The cruise line has also focused on introducing younger people to maritime career opportunities. More than 200 young people have been welcomed onboard Fred. Olsen’s ships and into the company’s shoreside offices for educational visits and practical experiences designed to provide greater insight into the maritime sector.