Life on Board: How Long Crews Stay at Sea, Working Hours, and Contracts ⚓🌍

Davide Ramponi
29. Mai 2025
4 Min. Lesezeit

My name is Davide Ramponi, I am 20 years old and currently training as a shipping agent in Hamburg. On my blog, I take you with me on my journey into the exciting world of shipping. I share my knowledge, my experiences, and my progress on the way to becoming an expert in the field of Sale and Purchase – the trade with ships.

Seafarer reviewing contract in ship cabin with the same focus on seafarer contracts and working hours, ocean visible through porthole.

When we think about life at sea, images of sunsets over the horizon and exciting ports of call often come to mind. 🌅🚢 But behind the romance, there’s a strict framework that regulates how long crews stay on board, how many hours they work, and how they balance demanding schedules.

In today’s post, we’ll dive deep into how seafarer contracts are structured, what working hours and rest periods look like under international regulations, and how the shipping industry is evolving to support better working conditions. If you're curious about the realities of life aboard, or if you're preparing for a career at sea, this guide will give you a full overview!

How Seafarer Contracts Are Regulated (MLC 2006) 📜⚖️

Maritime work contracts aren’t just left to the discretion of shipping companies — they’re governed by international law to protect crew members’ rights and welfare.

1. What is MLC 2006? 🌍

The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006), often called the "seafarers’ bill of rights," sets minimum working and living standards for all seafarers worldwide.

Key provisions include:

Employment agreements must be clear, fair, and signed by both parties.
Seafarers have the right to decent accommodation, medical care, and welfare measures.
Payment of wages must be regular and transparent.
Maximum working hours and minimum rest periods are strictly regulated.

Tip: Before boarding, every seafarer should receive a copy of their contract and fully understand its terms — it's a vital protection!

2. Contract Lengths ⏳

Typically, seafarer contracts (often called "Sea Service Agreements") are set between 4 and 9 months depending on:

The type of vessel
The flag state
Company policy

Shorter contracts (3–4 months) are common on specialized vessels like offshore supply ships, while longer contracts (up to 9 months) are more typical for merchant vessels and tankers.

Typical Working Hours and Break Regulations 🕒🛌

Life aboard a ship runs on a strict timetable — and rest is just as important as work to keep operations safe and efficient.

1. Standard Rules Under MLC 2006 📋

To prevent fatigue and ensure safety, the MLC mandates:

Maximum 14 working hours in any 24-hour period
Maximum 72 working hours in any 7-day period
Minimum 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period
Rest periods can be divided into no more than two parts, one of which must be at least 6 hours long.

Fun Fact: Some vessels organize shifts into "watches" — commonly 4 hours on duty, 8 hours off duty (the "4-on/8-off" system).

2. Variations by Vessel Type 🚢

Cargo ships: Often operate 2-watch or 3-watch systems around the clock.
Cruise ships: Work schedules can be busier, especially during port calls.
Offshore vessels: May use rotation systems like "28 days on/28 days off" due to intense working environments.

Challenges of Long Deployments Without Shore Leave ⚓🏝️

Staying at sea for months brings unique difficulties — especially when shore leave is restricted or impossible.

1. Limited Access to Land and Recreation 🚷

Due to operational demands, port security, or global issues like pandemics, crews sometimes go weeks — or even months — without stepping off the vessel.

Impacts include:

Cabin fever and irritability
Disrupted mental health
Decreased job satisfaction

Tip: Crews that organize onboard activities (like sports tournaments, movie nights, or BBQs) often maintain higher morale!

2. Family Separation 📱❤️

Maintaining contact with family is crucial — but connectivity can be limited depending on the ship’s location. Long deployments strain relationships and emotional wellbeing.

Solutions include:

Satellite internet (though expensive!)
Welfare agencies providing communication support

Tips for Crews: How to Maintain a Balance Between Work and Rest ⚖️🌟

Keeping a healthy rhythm at sea isn’t just nice — it’s essential for safety and wellbeing.

1. Prioritize Quality Rest 😴

Even if you get the required 10 hours of rest, quality matters.

Darken your cabin to improve sleep.
Reduce caffeine intake before rest periods.
Use earplugs or noise-canceling devices if needed.

2. Stay Physically Active 🏋️‍♂️

Exercise is a proven stress reliever.

Many ships have small gyms — use them!
If space is tight, bodyweight exercises or yoga work well too.

3. Build Personal Rituals 📚🎵

Having daily rituals outside work — such as reading, journaling, or listening to music — provides mental separation between duty time and personal time.

Tip: Developing hobbies onboard keeps your mind engaged and reduces feelings of isolation.

4. Maintain Strong Communication 📱🌍

Stay in touch with family and friends whenever possible.

Set regular call or message times.
Share updates about your days to stay connected emotionally.

Changes in the Industry to Improve Working Conditions ⚙️🚀

Recognizing the toll that long deployments take, the shipping industry is pushing for improvements.

1. Shorter Contracts and More Frequent Crew Changes 🔄

Some forward-thinking companies now offer shorter contract cycles, with more consistent crew rotations to limit extended time at sea.

Goal: Reduce fatigue, maintain motivation, and improve safety.

2. Better Internet Connectivity 📡

Maritime satellite providers are expanding services to make internet access more affordable and widespread. This helps seafarers:

Stay connected with loved ones
Access entertainment and education resources
Reduce feelings of isolation

3. Enhanced Mental Health Support 🧠💬

Shipping companies are investing in:

Onboard wellness programs
Confidential counseling hotlines
Crew welfare officers trained in mental health awareness

Fun Fact: Some shipping lines now offer online meditation apps and mental fitness training to their crews!

Conclusion: Navigating Life at Sea with Balance ⚓🌅

Working at sea offers adventure, unique experiences, and international opportunities — but it also requires endurance, discipline, and strong mental resilience.

Seafarer contracts, working hours, and rest periods are strictly regulated under MLC 2006.
Long deployments and limited shore leave can be challenging, but good habits and strong communication help.
Industry changes are improving crew welfare, connectivity, and mental health support.

If you are preparing for life at sea — or are already living it — balancing work and rest is one of your most important tasks. What are your experiences with life onboard?