Seatrade Maritime has unveiled plans for the return of Crew Connect Global, a flagship conference and exhibition centred on maritime crewing, training, and technology.
Scheduled for 11-13 November 2025 in Manila, Philippines, this event will convene industry pioneers, policy-makers, and seafaring professionals to discuss pressing challenges within crewing and ship management.
Critical topics in maritime crewing
The conference will cover significant topics impacting the crewing sector, from geopolitical disruptions affecting shipping operations to critical Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) revisions and updates on seafarer welfare.
It will also highlight the need to address the STCW skills gap, outline the roadmap for improvements, and explore the challenges that decarbonisation and energy transition pose to the industry.
Innovative technologies: AI and ML
This year's programme will feature in-depth discussions on the transformative applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning in shipping. It will also tackle enduring issues related to recruitment and retention, focusing on innovative strategies to overcome these challenges.
Focus on wellbeing and inclusion
A key aspect of the conference will be the mental health and wellbeing of seafarers, acknowledging the distinct pressures faced by those in the maritime sector. Sessions will also address diversity and inclusion, aiming to foster a more inclusive workforce within the maritime industry.
Esteemed speakers and special features
Additionally, special features of the conference will include a Cadet Task Force presentation
The event will host an impressive lineup of speakers, including Susanne Justesen from the Global Maritime Forum, Stephen Cotton from the International Transport Workers’ Federation, and several other leading figures in the maritime sector.
Additionally, special features of the conference will include a Cadet Task Force presentation, the Crew Connect Global Awards and Gala Dinner, and extensive networking opportunities in the supplier showcase expo hall.
Chris Morley, Portfolio Director at Seatrade Maritime, stated, "As the maritime industry faces unprecedented challenges from geopolitical disruption to technological transformation, Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global provides an essential platform for collaboration and solution-finding. We're bringing together the brightest minds in shipping to address critical issues like crew shortages, digital literacy, and the energy transition."
Seatrade Maritime announces the return of Crew Connect Global, the premier conference and exhibition focused on maritime crewing, training, and technology, bringing together pioneers, officials and seafarers to address challenges in crewing and ship management.
This year's Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global conference, taking place on 11-13 November 2025 in Manila, Philippines, will tackle key issues in the crewing sector and will shine a light on the latest technology.
From geopolitical disruption and its far-reaching impact on shipping and crewing operations to critical MLC revision and seafarer welfare updates. Attendees will also gain valuable insights into the STCW skills gap and the roadmap for its revision, alongside sessions exploring decarbonisation and energy transition challenges reshaping the sector.
AI and ML in shipping
The program will delve into cutting-edge AI and machine learning applications transforming shipping practices, while addressing the industry's persistent recruitment and retention challenges.
Special focus will be placed on mental health and wellbeing for seafarers, recognising the unique pressures faced by maritime professionals, and the conference will examine strategies to enhance diversity at sea, creating a more inclusive maritime workforce for the future.
Confirmed speakers include:
- Susanne Justesen, Director – Human Sustainability at Global Maritime Forum
- Stephen Cotton, General Secretary at the International Transport Workers’ Federation
- Kathryn Neilson Director, Merchant Navy Training Board at UK Chamber of Shipping
- Helio Vincente, Director of Employment Affairs at International Chamber of Shipping
- Sara Baade, CEO at Sailors’ Society
- Ben Bailey, Director of Programme at Mission to Seafarers
- Katie Higginbottom, Head at ITF Seafarers’ Trust
- Karen Davis, Managing Director at OCIMF
- Torbjørn Eide, Vice President at Klaveness Ship Management AS
- Erik Mohn, Director of Crewing at Stödig Ship Management
- Nick Chubb, Founder & Author at Thetius
Special features
The conference will also include:
- A Cadet Task Force presenting findings from their three-day assignment
- The prestigious Crew Connect Global Awards and Gala Dinner
- Extensive networking opportunities in the supplier showcase expo hall
"As the maritime industry faces unprecedented challenges from geopolitical disruption to technological transformation, Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global provides an essential platform for collaboration and solution-finding," said Chris Morley, Portfolio Director at Seatrade Maritime.
"We're bringing together the brightest minds in shipping to address critical issues like crew shortages, digital literacy, and the energy transition."
