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Seafarers from across the world share what inspired them to join the maritime industry and what they value most about their work.
Financial stability
For many, the greatest motivation is providing for their families. A career at sea offers financial security and the chance to break cycles of poverty. As Captain Dexter Capoy explained, “I came from a very poor family, and I don’t want my kids to experience what I experienced back then.” While seafaring is a tough industry, there is a deep sense of comfort in knowing their sacrifices directly support their families’ futures. As Nicole, a Deck Cadet, shared, “The fact that I am able to make good money and send money home to my family in the Philippines, it makes a huge difference for them.”
Travel and adventure
Despite shorter turnaround times and limited shore leave, the appeal of travel still draws many to the sea. This was certainly the case for Verome Yase. “From a young age, I was fascinated by the vastness of the ocean and the idea of exploring the world,” he says. “The sea offered a sense of freedom that few land-based careers could provide.”
Beyond exploring new destinations, many take pride in being part of a global industry. “I am proud to be part of a tradition that keeps global trade moving under any circumstances,” explains Captain Fernando Cruz. “A good example was during the Covid-19 pandemic. The seafarers are the unsung frontliners who made sure that the world didn’t stop.”
Camaraderie and friendship
Life at sea builds bonds like no other. Crews depend on each other fully, creating a sense of family that lasts well beyond the voyage. For Shrikant Sonawane, those bonds were forged in adversity. He remembers one incident in particular. “The sea was extremely rough, and I felt fear. But I also realised the strength of teamwork. That experience taught me resilience and trust in my colleagues.”
There are also moments of awe and joy – sunsets in the middle of the ocean, an immense sense of peace and, as Chief Officer Shamim Hossain recalls, more surreal experiences including, “a BBQ party and dance in the middle of the ocean.”
As global trade continues to evolve, these stories remind us that seafarers are navigating not just the oceans, but also their own journeys of growth and development.
