MAJOR DECLINE IN SHORE LEAVE IN THE PORT OF NY & NJ—SCI Sees a 46% Decline in Seafarer Transports at the International Seafarers’ Center
The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt
President & Executive Director
Global shipping remains the foundation of international commerce, yet the well-being of the workforce behind this vast network—seafarers—appears to be under increasing strain. The Seamen’s Church Institute’s International Seafarers Center has noted a year-to-date decrease in offvessel seafarer transportation, as well as reports of decreases in shore leave for seafarers in the Port of New York and New Jersey, which is among the largest seaports in the United States.
Although the definitive causes remain unclear, whether due to heightened security measures, visa challenges, stricter port protocols, or a combination thereof, SCI has observed a concerning statistical trend. Data from 2025 at our ISC shows a year-to-date decline in the number of off-vessel seafarer transportations provided by SCI when compared against data from 2024, as well as continuing verbal reports of issues experienced by seafarers regarding both shore leave requests and approvals. Increasing legal and administrative hurdles may be contributing to limited access to this essential respite, creating growing obstacles for seafarers who depend on time ashore for rest, recovery, and overall well-being. Matt Morse, ISC’s Director, notes that “from January through September of 2024, the ISC’s capable staff provided 6,194 unique seafarer transportations. In contrast, from January through July of 2025, the ISC has provided 3,321 seafarer transportations; a notable decline of approximately 46%, unattributable to ISC readiness or resources.”
For more than 185 years, SCI has been a leading advocate for the rights and dignity of seafarers. Along with our many partner organizations around the world, SCI recognizes shore leave as a vital component of seafarer well-being; directly impacting mental health, job performance, and operational safety. Shore leave allows seafarers time away from the ship, the opportunity to seek necessary care, and a vital break from the stress and isolation of shipboard life. SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy actively monitors these developments and works with other welfare organizations at regular International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) meetings to advocate for policies that improve the human element of shipping and maritime work. CMA Director, Phil Schifflin, Esq., offered this perspective when he addressed ILO proceedings in Geneva back in April 2025: “When you ask a seafarer what is the greatest morale boost they experience while on contract, they regularly mention shore leave. This has been true for centuries on end. The arrival of a vessel in port has brought the hope of stepping ashore—to buy essentials, to get away from the ship, to reconnect with the world. Today, too many seafarers are denied that basic moment of humanity because of the inaction or complexity of overlapping port state, flag state, or company policies.”
The maritime industry recognizes the serious risks associated with restricting shore leave for seafarers. As highlighted in the “Seafarers Happiness Index” of Q4-2023 sponsored by the Mission to Seafarers in Great Britain, crew members regularly express concern over the mental toll of prolonged time aboard without the opportunity to go ashore. “Seafarers talk of the mental strain caused by extended periods spent on board without the chance to go ashore. Restrictions imposed by some countries, terminal limitations, and the remaining legacy of pandemic-related constraints significantly affect morale.” In every subsequent index, seafarers consistently note that a lack of shore leave impacts performance and morale.
“Along with our many partner organizations around the world, SCI recognizes shore leave as a vital component of seafarer wellbeing, directly impacting mental health, job performance, and operational safety.” — The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, President & Executive Director
Seafaring is dangerous, demanding work, and extended periods at sea without rest compromise individual and crew safety, and perhaps indirectly the integrity of global maritime trade. While SCI fully recognizes and respects the essential work of government and port authorities in ensuring port and national security, we also urge these offices to consider the dignity and well-being of the international seafarers who sustain global commerce. Is there a way to ensure security without compromising compassion and operational safety? It’s not an easy question to answer currently. One thing is clear, though; shore leave is a critical lifeline for seafarers. It should be safeguarded, not merely as a matter of rights, but as a foundational element of safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations.
