Seafarers in the UK Shipping Industry: 2021
UK seafarers statistics on active at sea and non-UK seafarers qualified to work on UK registered vessels in 2021.
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These statistics show:
- there were an estimated 21,970 UK nationals active at sea in 2021, an 8% decrease compared to 23,880 in 2020
- around half of the total active seafarers were Officers (9,670 certificated and 1,070 uncertificated)
- that 43% of seafarers were Ratings, and there were 1,740 Officer Cadets in training during the financial year 2020 to 2021
- the majority of UK seafarers active at sea were male (82%), with most female seafarers working as Uncertificated Officers or as Ratings
To note for 2021 figures:
The measures put in place to limit the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) has impacted the seafarer figures covered in this release. The closure of business and operations is expected to have limited the sea time available to seafarers which is required to apply for certificates. Additionally, those in training may not have been able to attend their courses and training due to closure of colleges and training centres. Similarly, reduced access to exam centres may have reduced applications for certificates from trainee Officers.
These annual statistics are compiled from certification data held by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and data collected via the UK Chamber of Shipping Seafarer Employment Survey. Further details of the coverage of the statistics, uses and limitations can be found in the statistical release.
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