G2 Ocean signs declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change

G2 Ocean joins forces with more than 300 companies and organisations to help resolve the humanitarian crisis that has left 400,000 seafarers stranded on board ships around the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significant impacts on seafarers around the world. To prevent virus infection, many countries have imposed bans or restrictions on travel and crew changes, making it difficult for seafarers to join their ships or return home.

In December 2020, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) announced that approximately 400,000 seafarers are stranded on ships beyond the expiry of their contracts, while another 400.000 seafarers were unable to get to work.

To protect the rights and wellbeing of the seafarers, G2 Ocean signs the Neptune Declaration on Seafarers Wellbeing and Crew Change – a global call to action to end the ongoing crew change crisis.

Over 300 companies and organisations have signed the declaration, including G2 Ocean’s owners: Gearbulk and Grieg Star.

“I am pleased to see so many parties coming together to support our seafarers. By joining forces, we stand a better chance to put an end to this intolerable situation,” says Chief Executive Officer Arthur English at G2 Ocean.

Commits to 4 key actions

In signing the Neptune Declaration, G2 Ocean commits to facilitating crew changes and keeping global supply chains moving by taking the following actions:

• Recognising seafarers as Key Workers and giving them priority access to Covid-19 vaccines
• Establishing and implementing gold-standard health protocols based on existing best practice
• Increasing collaboration between ship operators and charterers to facilitate crew changes
• Ensuring air connectivity between key maritime hubs for seafarers

“Ensuring normal operations during these difficult times caused by the Covid-19 pandemic would not be possible without the dedication and hard work of the seafarers aboard our vessels,” says English.

“Together with our owners and industry partners, we will mobilise our resources to put this crisis to an end – it is our collective and individual responsibility,” he concludes.

The Neptune Declaration is developed by The Maritime Industry Crew Change Taskforce which consists of organisations such as the Global Maritime Forum, International Chamber of Shipping, International Maritime Employers’ Council, and the World Economic Forum.

Learn more about the Neptune Declaration and see the full list of undersigning companies and organisations here.