International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA)

International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA)





Website: https://icma.as
Contact page: https://icma.as/contact/
Email: info@icma.as 
Organisation type: International network of Christian maritime missions and welfare organisations serving seafarers worldwide.

What this organisation does

The International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) is a global association of Christian organisations involved in maritime ministry, welfare and pastoral support for seafarers. ICMA brings together member organisations from different countries that work in ports and maritime communities to support the wellbeing of seafarers regardless of nationality, culture or faith.
ICMA promotes cooperation between maritime missions, advocates for the rights and welfare of seafarers, and supports practical and pastoral care through its worldwide network of member organisations.
For seafarers, ICMA can be a useful gateway to local support services delivered through its member missions and port chaplaincy networks around the world.

Who can use the service

ICMA's work primarily supports:
  • Seafarers of all nationalities.
  • Merchant navy personnel.
  • Fishers and maritime workers where local member organisations provide support.
  • Seafarers' families through member organisations.
  • Port chaplains, maritime mission staff and volunteers.
Many frontline services are delivered by ICMA member organisations rather than directly by ICMA itself. Eligibility and available assistance may vary between locations and member organisations.

Support available

Support may be available through ICMA member organisations worldwide, including:
  • Welfare support for seafarers visiting ports.
  • Pastoral care and chaplaincy services.
  • Listening and emotional support.
  • Access to shore-based welfare facilities.
  • Help maintaining contact with family and friends.
  • Practical guidance when facing difficulties during a voyage or while in port.
  • Information on seafarers' rights and welfare concerns.
  • Emergency and crisis support through local maritime mission organisations where available.
  • Advocacy for fair treatment and improved welfare standards for seafarers.
The specific support available will depend on the local ICMA member organisation operating in a particular port or country.

Features and benefits

ICMA can help seafarers by:
  • Connecting them with trusted maritime welfare organisations around the world.
  • Providing access to experienced port chaplains and welfare workers.
  • Supporting wellbeing during periods of isolation, stress or uncertainty.
  • Offering practical local assistance when calling at ports.
  • Promoting dignity, welfare and fair treatment for seafarers globally.
  • Providing a worldwide network that understands the challenges of life at sea.
  • Helping seafarers locate appropriate support regardless of nationality or background.

How to get help

  1. Visit the ICMA website at https://icma.as.
  2. Use the member directory or organisation information available on the website to identify a local member organisation.
  3. Contact the relevant port chaplaincy, maritime mission or welfare organisation serving your port or region.
  4. If you are unsure which organisation can help, use the contact information on the ICMA website to request guidance.
  5. For urgent welfare concerns while in port, contact the nearest maritime mission or port welfare service listed through the ICMA network.

Things to check before contacting them

Before making contact, it may be useful to:
  • Confirm which ICMA member organisation serves your port or area.
  • Check local opening hours and visiting arrangements.
  • Identify the type of support you require.
  • Have vessel and port details available if requesting assistance while in transit.
  • Review any local eligibility requirements published by the individual member organisation.