Breaking Waves and Barriers: Women Seafarers in 2025

By Andrew Mwangura

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

On International Women’s Day 2025, we celebrate the growing presence of women in maritime careers while acknowledging the challenges that remain.

As dawn breaks over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Captain Sophia Chen stands on the bridge of the container vessel Global Voyager, expertly navigating through international waters. 

Eight years ago, when she first stepped aboard as a third officer, she was the only woman among the ship’s officers. Today, three of her twelve officers are women.

“When I started, people would mistake me for the cook or steward,” Chen recalls with a wry smile. “Now, while still far from equal representation, I’ve witnessed a sea change in how women are perceived in this industry.”

The Current Seascape

Despite progress, the maritime industry remains one of the most gender-imbalanced sectors globally. 

According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), women represent only about 2% of the world’s 1.2 million seafarers, with the majority working in the cruise and ferry sectors rather than cargo vessels, tankers, or bulk carriers.

The underrepresentation is particularly stark in leadership positions. 

Women occupy less than 1% of engineering roles and upper-level deck positions. This disparity persists despite numerous studies showing that diverse crews perform better in crisis management situations and report higher satisfaction rates.

Navigating Rough Waters: Challenges Women Face

Women seafarers confront numerous challenges unique to their gender in this traditionally male-dominated field:

Physical and Structural Barriers

Ships have historically been designed for male crews, from the height of equipment to the availability of properly fitting personal protective gear.

“I’ve had to modify my safety equipment,” explains Marine Engineer Leila Patel. “When your survival depends on this gear functioning correctly, ill-fitting equipment isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous.”

Many vessels lack appropriate facilities for women, with shared bathrooms still common on older ships. Privacy becomes a luxury rather than a basic right.

Cultural Headwinds

Perhaps the most formidable obstacles are cultural. Isolation is a reality for many women seafarers who may be the only female on a vessel for months at a time.

“There’s this constant pressure to prove yourself,” says Second Officer Maria Santos. “A man can make a mistake and it’s just a mistake. When I make one, suddenly it’s evidence that women don’t belong at sea.”

Sexual harassment and discrimination remain persistent problems.

A 2023 survey by the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) found that 60% of women seafarers had experienced some form of harassment during their careers.

Work-Life Balance

Extended periods away from home—sometimes 6-9 months at a stretch—create particular challenges for women with caregiving responsibilities.

“The industry still operates on the assumption that seafarers have someone at home managing family life,” observes Captain Chen. “For women who are often still expected to be primary caregivers, this creates impossible choices.”

Charting New Waters: Opportunities on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, maritime careers offer significant opportunities for women seeking adventure, technical expertise, and global perspectives.

Financial Independence

Maritime careers provide competitive salaries that often surpass land-based equivalents. Entry-level positions on international vessels can start at $40,000-$60,000 annually, with senior officers and captains earning well into six figures.

“Financial independence changes everything,” says Chief Engineer Amara Okafor. “I supported my entire family and funded my siblings’ education with my first few contracts.”

Skill Development and Advancement

The maritime industry offers clearly defined career advancement paths. With appropriate certifications and experience, progression from cadet to officer to captain is merit-based and achievable.

“Every promotion feels like breaking another barrier,” says First Officer Jasmine Taylor. “Each step up represents not just my achievement but expands possibilities for women coming after me.”

Global Citizenship

Few careers offer the opportunity to visit dozens of countries while performing meaningful work.

“I’ve visited over 60 countries across six continents,” says Captain Chen. “This global perspective has made me a better leader and a more effective advocate for inclusivity in the industry.”

Turning the Tide: Industry Initiatives

Recognizing both the moral imperative and business advantages of gender diversity, maritime organizations are implementing programs to recruit and retain women:

– The IMO’s “Women in Maritime” program provides scholarships and mentorship opportunities

– Shipping companies like Maersk and CMA CGM have established targets for female representation at all levels

– Maritime academies have improved harassment policies and created women’s support networks

– Vessel designs increasingly incorporate gender-neutral accommodations and facilities

Navigating Forward

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, the maritime industry stands at a crossroads. The challenges facing women seafarers remain substantial, but so too are the opportunities and rewards.

“I don’t want special treatment,” Captain Chen emphasizes. “I want equal treatment—the same opportunities, respect, and working conditions as my male colleagues. The sea doesn’t care about your gender, and neither should the industry.”

For young women considering maritime careers, the message from those who have navigated these waters is clear: prepare for challenges, but don’t be deterred by them.

“The industry needs you,” says Engineer Patel. “It needs your perspective, your skills, and your determination. The sea is vast enough for all of us.”

About the Author: This article was written in collaboration with women seafarers from twelve countries, representing various roles from cadets to captains, to provide an authentic perspective on the realities of maritime careers for women in 2025.