President’s Message

Hello Readers

Times are rapidly changing not only in our own lives, but across the global shipping industry. Digitalization, decarbonization and the demands for even greater focus on sustainability are all impacting us in every walk of life. These pressures all come into play onboard a vessel, and no more so, than on the unsung heroes of the industry – the humble seafarer.

The future of our industry – and that of the pressures now coming to bear from different organisations, governments, and local authorities – will inevitably rest on the weary shoulders of our seafarers. The pandemic is still lingering and impacting their lives, near and far. But how often do ‘industry leaders’ consider their actions in reality?

The transition to new fuels will also impact our seafarers. They will be required to gain new skills and expertise to ensure safe and smarter ship operations and safe operability of new engine types. Seafarers will have to handle these new fuels and technologies and adapt to new safety management systems and documentation onboard.

At Wilhelmsen Ship Management, we have a long track record of supporting our seafarers, through the good times, and the not-so-good. We will strive to make their transition on these new frontiers as seamless as possible with learning and to ensure they do not become overwhelmed by the many changes. Our ethos is always for the betterment of the seafarer.

That said, during the pandemic, we were aware that the perception of a seafarer’s lot at sea had worsened and even deterred many from considering it as a profession. We are doing our part to change that, but the industry still has much to do. While all these different pressures and more are being played out, the mental health of seafarers should remain a key concern for all those that have a stake in their jobs and their futures. In such uncertain times, they need support and accessibility to welfare.

Wilhelmsen Ship Management has stood for a long time beside our seafarers, offering what they require. But as the industry revolves again on its axis, it should be the seafarer’s mental well-being that comes into sharper focus for all concerned in the uncertain world we now live in.

With regards,

Carl Schou, CEO & President

of Wilhelmsen Ship Management