For seafarers and their families
For yacht crew and their families
For maritime organisations
Our mission
Seafarers bring us 90% of the things we use every day, and take care of us when we travel by sea, but this is often a tough job. We operate free, confidential, multilingual helplines to provide help and support, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
ISWAN is a network of international organisations and companies committed to improving the welfare of seafarers. Our members reflect the diversity present in the maritime sector today, possessing a wealth of different experience, and include key stakeholders in the field of seafarers’ welfare.
Our vision
ISWAN supports seafarers and their families around the world with our free helpline services, educational resources, relief funds and humanitarian support. We also work to drive change within the maritime sector for better health and wellbeing amongst seafarers, using data from our helplines and our teams in India and the Philippines to identify areas of need and inform new projects and research.
About usIn 2023, we assisted over 6,400 seafarers and their families.
In 2023, seafarers of 106 different nationalities contacted us.
In 2023, we administered relief fund grants totalling over US$180,000.
Seafarer stories
A free mobile app for seafarers which can be used offline to access help, information and support around the clock.
ISWAN Membership
Receive a quarterly members' e-newsletter with insights from our helplines.
Speak to our Business Development Manager to explore what we can offer.
Collaborate with like-minded organisations
Participate in key research and campaigns
Receive monthly expert briefing papers
Join our membership events
Strengthen your CSR/ESG objectives
28 November 2024
1 min read
A joint study by ISWAN and Gujarat Maritime University reveals the devastating impact of recruitment fraud on India's maritime workforce. The report uncovers how unscrupulous agents exploit seafarers, trapping thousands in cycles of debt, dangerous working conditions, and professional uncertainty.
25 November 2024
1 min read
Marga de Mol, (e-)coach for the maritime sector, delves into the challenges of intergenerational differences among seafarers on board and how coaching can help to bridge the gap.
31 October 2024
1 min read
On October 10th, ISWAN - Philippines hosted an event titled “Financial Freedom, Mental Clarity: Empowering Seafarers and Families” in celebration of World Mental Health Day to address the crucial intersection of financial stability and mental wellbeing among seafarers and their families.
