The Mission to Seafarers

The Mission to Seafarers


Website: The Mission to Seafarers
Contact page: Contact The Mission to Seafarers
Global coverage: More than 200 ports across 50 countries. 

What this organisation does

The Mission to Seafarers is an international maritime welfare charity that supports seafarers and their families worldwide. Founded in 1856, the organisation provides practical, emotional and welfare support to people working at sea, helping them manage the challenges of life onboard and away from home. 
The charity operates through a global network of chaplains, staff, volunteers and Flying Angel centres, providing support throughout a seafarer's journey both at sea and in port. 

Who can use the service

Support is available to:
  • Merchant seafarers of all nationalities.
  • Crew members visiting ports where The Mission to Seafarers operates.
  • Seafarers experiencing welfare, wellbeing or mental health concerns.
  • Seafarers seeking pastoral or emotional support.
  • Families of seafarers who may need information, resources or wellbeing support. 
Services are offered regardless of nationality, faith background or rank. Availability may vary by location and programme. Publisher should verify any location-specific eligibility requirements before publication.

Support available

The Mission to Seafarers provides a wide range of welfare services, including:
  • Welfare support in ports around the world.
  • Access to Flying Angel Centres offering a safe place to rest, connect with family and access local assistance.
  • Ship visiting services by chaplains and volunteers.
  • Emotional and pastoral support.
  • Online chaplaincy services.
  • Mental health and wellbeing initiatives through the WeCare programme.
  • Family support resources and community initiatives.
  • Seafarers Happiness Index surveys and reporting to help improve conditions across the maritime industry.
  • Information, guidance and support during personal or welfare difficulties.
  • Advocacy and awareness work on issues affecting seafarers. 

Features and benefits

The Mission to Seafarers can help seafarers:
  • Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation during long periods away from home.
  • Access support from trained welfare professionals and chaplains.
  • Stay connected with family and loved ones.
  • Find practical assistance when visiting ports.
  • Access wellbeing and mental health resources.
  • Receive support regardless of faith, nationality or background.
  • Share feedback about life at sea through industry-wide wellbeing initiatives.
  • Obtain help from a trusted maritime welfare charity with a long history of serving seafarers.

How to get help

  1. Visit the organisation's website.
  2. Use the port finder to locate a Flying Angel Centre or Mission to Seafarers service near your vessel.
  3. Access online wellbeing resources and WeCare programmes.
  4. Contact a chaplain online if you would like emotional or pastoral support.
  5. Contact your nearest Mission to Seafarers port centre for local welfare assistance.
  6. Explore family-support resources if you are a family member seeking information or guidance. 

Things to check before contacting them

  • Check whether there is a Flying Angel Centre in your current or upcoming port.
  • Confirm local opening hours and available services.
  • Check whether any specific welfare programme is available in your region.
  • Have basic details available about your vessel, location and support needs when making contact.
  • If seeking urgent medical assistance, use appropriate emergency or onboard procedures in the first instance.
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