Guidance

The Seafarers' Charter

The Seafarers' Charter is a voluntary agreement of standards for seafarers between the UK government and maritime operators.

Documents

The Seafarers' Charter

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The Seafarers' Charter: detailed requirements

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The Seafarers' Charter - questions and answers

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Details

The purpose of the charter is to promote good employment practices and protections for seafarers. It aims to protect and improve seafarer welfare and employment. It sets out standards for operators relating to:

  • pay
  • professional development
  • contracts of employment
  • social welfare
  • tours of duty and rest
  • training
  • drugs and alcohol

Operators who can demonstrate that they comply with the standards set out in the charter can apply for verified Seafarers’ Charter status.

The Seafarers’ Charter document sets out:

  • the objectives and scope of the charter
  • the application and verification process

The Seafarers’ Charter detailed requirements document sets out the standards operators must meet to receive verified Seafarers’ Charter status.

The Seafarers’ Charter questions and answers document provides additional context and detail that may be helpful to operators.

Organisations wishing to find out more or wishing to apply for Verified Seafarers’ Charter status, should contact SeaFarersCharter@dft.gov.uk.

Updates to this page

Published 24 July 2023

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