Budget season is approaching, and many shipowners and ship managers are already looking ahead to their crewing costs for 2027.
If you are preparing your 2027 crew budget, our CEO and Founder, Henrik Jensen, would be pleased to discuss current wage levels, recruitment trends and other factors likely to influence crewing costs in the year ahead.
While crew wages continue to account for the largest share of most budgets, the cost of crew changes remains difficult to predict as airfares continue to fluctuate in response to fuel prices, airline capacity and geopolitical developments.
So what can you expect in 2027? Based on current market conditions and our daily contact with clients and seafarers around the world, Danica’s view is that:
• There will be no general increase in seafarer salaries during 2027.
• Wage adjustments agreed under Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) will continue to apply.
• Salary pressure is likely to remain for certain ranks and vessel types where experienced seafarers are still in high demand.
• Crew travel costs and airfares are expected to remain difficult to predict.
With eight offices worldwide and regular contact with thousands of seafarers, Danica has a clear understanding of wage levels, recruitment trends and crew-related costs across the global maritime industry. This allows us to provide clients with realistic guidance when planning crew budgets and forecasting future crewing expenses.
Just as importantly, Danica believes in complete budget transparency and our clients know exactly what they are paying for, with no hidden charges or unexpected costs. Combined with our independent approach to crew travel, which involves comparing fares from three different travel agencies, this helps shipowners and ship managers maintain control of their crewing budgets throughout the year.
Feel free to contact us to learn about current and expected wage levels, recruitment trends and other factors likely to influence crewing costs in the year ahead.
We can also prepare a complimentary reference crew budget for your vessel or fleet, allowing you to benchmark your figures against current market conditions, with no cost and no obligation.
Whether you’re facing a crewing challenge, planning ahead, or simply exploring how Danica could support your business, we’re always happy to have a conversation.
To make things easier, Henrik has introduced a new online booking link that allows shipowners, managers and maritime professionals to schedule a convenient 30-minute meeting directly in his calendar.
Book a 30-minute meeting with Henrik here
