Workers at sea have reacted positively to the launch of a platform to allow crewmembers to anonymously rate and review living conditions onboard vessels with the site’s creator keen to get all shipping sectors involved.
Despite its name, OffshoreShipAdvisor.com, the seafarer’s Tripadvisor now covers all shipping sectors, not just offshore, with more than 37,000 vessels in its database aimed at helping to improve overall standards and transparency across the industry.
Many seafarers work as subcontractors, frequently transitioning between vessels. When accepting a new job, the only information available on popular websites typically consists of exterior images of the vessel. There is little insight into onboard facilities such as gyms, food quality, communications, or cabin conditions.
Knowledge is power
Seafarers are invited to rate ships on this new site, looking at categories including accommodation, downtime facilities, food and drink, wifi, and cleanliness.
The creator of the site, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “Importantly, this site was created by a seafarer, for seafarers. While we remain actively involved in the industry, we aim to keep ownership private to avoid any impact on future job opportunities.”
The platform’s social media presence is managed by IT specialists, ensuring smooth operations while maintaining anonymity for those behind the platform.
Looking ahead, the platform’s creator envisions expanding offerings to include reviews of recruitment agencies and training centres, while also hoping that major vessel owning companies will engage with the platform, showcasing their vessels and facilities.
Splash readers have widely applauded the initiative while warning of the legal risks involved.
“Knowledge is power and hopefully the true state of a vessel can be shared and people encouraged onto the good, and able to avoid the bad while the ugly get shunned and sanctioned,” noted Steven Jones, the founder of the Seafarers Happiness Index, while Frank Coles, a maritime consultant and former CEO at shipmanager Wallem, described the concept as brilliant. “
“The trick will be to maintain anonymity while keeping the veracity and integrity so that meaningful change can be pressured upon those who abuse the welfare of seafarers,” Coles said.
