Seafarers spend long stretches isolated at sea, away from loved ones. That’s why safe, welcoming shore-based seafarer facilities matter.

Recently, SAMSA visited the Richards Bay Seafarers Centre and the Durban Seafarers Mission that are spaces meant to be a home away from home for seafarers which offer much more than just rest – they provide connection, comfort, and community. These centres are equipped with chapels and prayer rooms to game rooms and spaces for outdoor activities.

These facilities serve all seafarers – regardless of nationality or religion with open hearts and open doors.

The SAMSA team who visited the Richards Bay Seafarers Centre comprised of Mr Sibusiso Rantsoabe (Manager: OHS & Maritime Welfare Manager), Ms Nonhlanhla Mjweni (Marine OHS Specialist) and Mr Thibedi Mbaya (Maritime Welfare Officer). They were welcomed at the centre by Ms Wilma Thompson and Port Chaplain Mark Classen.

Mr Rantsoabe and Mr Mbaya went on to visit the Durban Seafarers Mission and were welcomed by the Mission’s Manager Mr Brian Isaac, Resident Chaplain Wayne Meyer and Port Chaplain Dr Forbes Maupa.

Productive conversations during these visits focused on:
– Strengthening welfare offerings
– Navigating future demands
– Legislative updates & funding
– Deepening collaboration with dedicated chaplains and volunteers

SAMSA celebrates the vital role these missions play and the passionate teams behind them. We remain committed to expanding and sustaining seafarer welfare facilities across all South African ports.

#SeafarerWelfare #SAMSA #SAMSAAtWork #MaritimeSupport #SafeSpaceforSeafarers #TogetherForSeafarers The Mission to Seafarers