Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has become the first cruise line to sign the Merchant Navy Welfare Board’s Seafarer Pledge, formalising its commitment to crew welfare, professional development and the long-term recruitment of maritime personnel.
The pledge, developed along similar principles to the Armed Forces Covenant, is intended to recognise the contribution of seafarers and encourage organisations across the maritime sector to improve opportunities, welfare and career prospects for those working at sea.
As a signatory, Fred. Olsen has committed to practical measures supporting career progression, transitions between shipboard and shore-based employment, recognition of maritime qualifications and experience, and greater awareness of careers at sea. The initiative adds to existing programmes covering crew welfare and training. Fred. Olsen currently operates three ocean ships, Bolette, Borealis and Balmoral, and has previously expanded its welfare provision through membership of the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network, giving its crews access to confidential, multilingual support.
The company's approach also includes internal career development. Among its senior officers are captains who progressed through the organisation, including Captain Rommel Pineda, who joined Fred. Olsen as a deck boy in 1996, and Captain Paolo Togonon, who advanced to Master following more than 15 years with the company.
Fred. Olsen has also introduced a dedicated Crew Welfare Officer position to coordinate welfare initiatives across the fleet and has continued to provide educational and practical opportunities for young people interested in maritime careers. The company has previously worked with the Maritime Skills Academy on officer training and has supported cadet placements aboard its ships, reinforcing its focus on professional development.
Leanna Lakes, Technical and Marine Operations Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said the pledge formalises the company's existing approach to supporting its workforce and recognises the contribution of seafarers to both the business and the wider maritime industry. She said the company intended to use its position as a signatory to strengthen welfare, development and career opportunities while contributing to higher standards across the sector.
The Merchant Navy Welfare Board said the pledge has attracted more than 80 organisations and is intended to establish clearer expectations for companies supporting seafarers. The board views collaboration between employers, maritime organisations and welfare bodies as central to improving conditions and ensuring that those working at sea receive appropriate support and recognition.
The Seafarer Pledge is jointly funded by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, Trinity House and the Merchant Navy Association. Its introduction reflects a wider effort within the UK maritime sector to address seafarer welfare, skills development and the recruitment of the next generation of maritime professionals. Fred. Olsen's existing welfare initiatives, including its ISWAN membership and dedicated support services for its 2,568 crew members, form part of that broader commitment.