Page 28 - 2025 - Q1 - Minerva in Focus

MINERVA IN FOCUS Health & wellbeing

Making

connections

in a challenging

environment Ways to build strong
friendships at sea

Source: Innovative Maritime
Emotional Intelligence Start with small talk
Center (I.M.E.Q.) If someone mentions they like fishing, ask about their best
catch or share a fishing story of your own.

Be a good listener and offer support
If a fellow crew member shares that they’re missing their child’s
birthday, suggest making a short video message to send home.

Join group activities
If it’s someone’s birthday, gather a small group and surprise
them with a simple song or a shared treat from the galley.

Show respect and reliability
If you promise to cover a short shift while a crewmate makes
Life at sea is a unique an important call home, make sure you follow through.
experience. Communicate openly and resolve issues calmly
It comes with adventure, If a roommate is being too loud while you’re trying to rest,
politely ask them to lower the volume rather than ignoring it
hard work, and the challenge and feeling frustrated.
of being away from home for
long periods. Offer help and be kind
If a colleague is struggling with heavy lifting, offer a hand
without being asked. It shows teamwork and builds trust.
For seafarers, forming friendships onboard isn’t always Share a funny sea story or a humorous experience from your
easy – long shifts, a demanding environment, and cultur- home country to lighten the mood.
al differences can make socialising difficult. But strong
relationships with crewmates can make ship life more Finding the right friendships
enjoyable, reduce stress, and even improve teamwork. If you both enjoy playing guitar, suggest a jam session during
Here’s how you can build meaningful connections while downtime.
working at sea.

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