Fred. Olsen Cruise Line Adheres to MNWB's Seafarer Pledge

Fred. Olsen Cruise Line signed the Seafarer Pledge of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB) to strengthen the welfare of its crew, professional development, and the future of maritime talent.

Inspired by the Armed Forces Covenant, the document unites organizations to recognize and respect seafarers whose skill, professionalism, and service keep the UK connected to the world, while promoting greater welfare, opportunities, and long-term prospects.

As a signatory, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the first cruise company on the list, commits to taking practical steps to support professional development, facilitate transitions between sea and shore-based roles, recognize maritime skills and experience, and inspire future generations to consider professional careers at sea.

This commitment builds on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' track record of investing in its people. Among those who have risen through the ranks are Captain Rommel Pineda, who began his career with the company as a deck boy in 1996, and Captain Paolo Togonon, who was recently promoted to captain after more than 15 years of service.

This year, the company created the position of Crew Welfare Officer to coordinate welfare initiatives across its fleet. Additionally, it has welcomed over 200 young people aboard its vessels and in its shore-based offices for educational visits and practical experiences, contributing to showcasing the opportunities available in the maritime sector.

Leanna Lakes, Director of Technical and Marine Operations at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said that "our people are the cornerstone of everything we do, and we recognize the invaluable contribution they make to both our business and the wider maritime sector. We are proud to be the first cruise line to sign the Seafarer Pledge and join organizations across the maritime industry in recognizing the critical role seafarers play every day."

"By signing, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the welfare, development, and career opportunities of those who make our voyages possible, while helping to create a safer, fairer, and more supportive maritime industry for generations to come," Lakes added.

Sharon Coveney, Deputy Chief Executive of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, which is the UK association of maritime welfare charities, expressed that "we are proud to see more than 80 organizations have joined the pledge, including Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. This demonstrates a growing recognition across the maritime sector that we all have a role to play in improving working conditions for our seafarers, who are the foundation of global trade."

"Real progress is achieved through collaboration, and by working together we can make a difference in the lives of seafarers. This pioneering commitment is important because it sets clear expectations and encourages organizations to turn their commitment into concrete actions. Ultimately, it's about ensuring that those who work at sea receive fair, respectful treatment and the support they deserve," Coveney added.

The Seafarer Pledge initiative is jointly funded by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Trinity House, and the Merchant Navy Association, reflecting a shared commitment across the maritime sector to strengthen support for seafarers and raise awareness of their invaluable contribution to society.

Steven Jones, maritime consultant and one of the main drivers of the Pledge, stated that "it is extremely encouraging to see organizations like Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines adhere to the Seafarer Pledge. With a fleet of three ships and a long history of caring for their personnel, they are setting a benchmark for good practices in our industry."

"Their approach demonstrates that high standards and high-quality welfare go hand in hand, and that prioritizing seafarers is not only the right thing to do, but essential. Their commitment sends a strong message about the importance of looking after the welfare of seafarers," Jones concluded.