Access is now available to Nautilus International's third Maritime Barometer report, which provides fascinating insights into the UK public's perception of the maritime industry.
The latest report shows that, while awareness of the industry's vital role in global trade has been slowly increasing since the surveys began four years ago, misconceptions around career prospects, working conditions, and the industry's environmental impact persist.
The report identifies several key challenges and concerns that influence individuals' decisions about pursuing careers at sea – including a lack of awareness about the opportunities available in the maritime sector and a degree of public confusion about the Merchant Navy's role, with a significant portion associating it primarily with national defence rather than commercial shipping and trade.
The number of people willing to consider a career at sea is also declining, with only 22% of working-age adults open to the idea in 2024, down from 35% in 2022. The most common reason for rejecting a career at sea is the prolonged time spent away from home, cited by 33% of respondents, with many also perceiving a career at sea as being too dangerous. 29% of respondents believe they lack the necessary skills and training.
The concerns about seafaring as a career raised in the report should serve as a call to action for stakeholders across the maritime industry to collaborate on addressing in order to attract and retain a skilled workforce − especially as new technologies, fuels and regulations are set to transform the way vessels operate. This transition, particularly as we navigate to a 'net zero' carbon future in shipping, will require a workforce that is highly skilled, motivated, diverse and appropriately rewarded.
By addressing these challenges, the maritime industry can ensure a bright future for UK seafarers, and their continued contribution to the global economy.
Read the latest edition of the Maritime Barometer report.
The most common reason for rejecting a career at sea is the prolonged time spent away from home Nautilus Maritime Barometer Report (November 2024)
Nautilus podcast Off course blurb
As part of the campaign to combat sea-blindness Nautilus launched a podcast series Off course: A sideways look at life at sea. The podcast covers exceptional stories from life at sea from the truth about sea-sickness to the stories of those who have been captured by pirates, women advocating for greater gender representation in the industry, maritime influencers and much more. Download and listen to the podcast across most audio platforms including Soundcloud, Apple and Spotify.
Image: Nautilus International
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The Maritime Barometer 2024
Nautilus International polling on the UK public's attitudes to the maritime industry and maritime careers. (Third edition, 2024)