New Enhanced Protections for Crew on Malta-Flagged Vessels
by Paul Gonzi
06/02/2025
Seafaring is a unique occupation that comes with its own set of challenges and conditions, distinct from those found in typical land-based employment. Crew spend extended periods away from home, often working in isolated and confined environments on board ships. This demanding lifestyle requires them to adapt to different time zones, weather conditions, and the constant motion of the sea as well as seasonal employment.
Unlike traditional jobs, shipowners (as well as recruiters and employers of crew) must comply with maritime laws and regulations, which govern their working conditions, safety, and welfare.
The Malta Flag is one of the largest in the world, and this is because it is known for its robust legislative regime which adheres to international standards, not least the MLC Convention which applies to commercial seagoing vessels and which has, for decades, included protections for seafarers.
On the 4th February 2025, new rules were introduced to bolster the protection of seafarers on commercial seagoing vessels registered under the Malta flag.
Key Changes
Shipowners and recruitment services must have insurance or similar measures to compensate seafarers for any monetary loss due to the failure of recruitment services or shipowners’ obligations.
Seafarers must be informed about their rights under the insurance system before or during their engagement.
Seafarers’ right to receive wages is not dependent on the earning of freight. They can demand and recover wages even if freight has not been earned.
The catering department must provide adequate, varied, balanced, and nutritious meals in hygienic conditions.
Shipowners must take reasonable precautions to prevent accidents, injuries, and diseases on board. This includes providing appropriately-sized personal protective equipment and measures to reduce exposure to harmful factors.
Shipowners must provide appropriate recreational facilities, amenities, and services, including social connectivity, on board. These should meet the special needs of seafarers living and working on ships.
New vessels must, where practicable, provide reasonable access to ship-to-shore telephone communications and internet access. These services should be free or reasonably priced.
Shipowners are required to investigate, record, and report all deaths of seafarers on Maltese flagged ships to Transport Malta.
