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For those who call the ocean their workplace, every day brings change – unpredictable weather, new regulations, and shifting schedules. As seafarers reflect on the past 12 months, they also share moments of profound beauty, personal growth, and deep human connection.
FAITH AS AN ANCHOR
Psalm 121 asks, “Where does my strength come from?” For many seafarers, faith provides the anchor they need to navigate life’s uncertainties. Belief in God sustains hope beyond what can be controlled, offering comfort in the face of daily challenges.
It is why so many seafarers are pleased to see the dog collars worn by our chaplains or readily accept an invitation to pray. Jerry Palma, a steward, reflects, “I’ve faced challenges, like dealing with a co-worker who doesn’t like you. I find support by praying to God. I am proud that I’ve learned so many skills this year with His help.”
Beyond the quiet strength it gives crews to face the day, faith also shapes how they engage with one another, their work, and constant change.
GROWTH IN A WORLD OF CONSTANT CHANGE
Pressure and uncertainty are as much a part of life at sea as navigation and watchkeeping. New technology, evolving regulations, and the responsibility of keeping a ship safe all demand flexibility and continuous learning.
Capt. Aleksei, describes 2025 as a year of profound change and reward. “We faced new environmental regulations and IMO rules, but the most meaningful part of my year was mentoring new crew,” he says.
Each voyage brings opportunities for personal and professional growth, teaching lessons in patience, adaptability, and resilience.
These are opportunities that Chief Engineer Georgeen, sailing from Malaysia to South Korea, relishes. “Support from crewmates and the office team made a big difference,” he says. “I’m proud of how much I’ve grown and the more confident, dependable seafarer I’ve become.”
CAMARADERIE: A SECOND FAMILY
If faith sustains the individual and growth shapes the professional, it is teamwork and camaraderie that hold the ship together.
Lisa Briers, a Deck Officer Cadet, told us of her key learning from the year. “As tensions rise, it’s important we remember to look out for each other. That’s what this year has taught me: that we must all have each other’s backs.”
Life at sea is a shared experience, and crews often become like a second family – supporting each other through even the most personal challenges. For Filipino seafarer Wilan, his crew made all the difference in a turbulent year.
As he explains, “My wife and I were blessed with a baby girl, born on 4 January. The hardest moment was in October when she was hospitalised for six days while I was onboard. I felt worried and helpless, but my crew supported me with prayers and encouragement.”
Despite long hours, demanding schedules, and the constant unpredictability of life at sea, seafaring remains a profession full of pride and purpose. Reymar Maliao, a steward, sums it up simply, “Life at sea is about being strong, resilient, and grateful for every blessing.”
