Andreas Nordseth has been announced as Chair of this year’s Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global 2026, the premier global event dedicated to maritime crewing, training, and seafarer welfare. The event will take place from 20–22 October at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, Philippines, one of the world’s most important crewing hubs.

A distinguished maritime leader with over 30 years of expertise in maritime governance, safety, seafarer education, and workforce development, Nordseth is uniquely positioned to guide a dynamic conference programme. This year’s agenda will address critical challenges and opportunities in maritime crewing, with a focus on digital transformation, regulatory compliance, crew welfare, and sustainable workforce development.

The conference will feature an impressive line-up of industry leaders, including Simon Spacey, Chairman of the International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC); Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, President of the World Maritime University; Fabrizio Barcellona, Seafarers and Inland Navigation Sections Coordinator at the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF); Helio Vicente, Director of Employment Affairs at the International Chamber of Shipping; and Andreas Hadjipetrou, CEO of Columbia Shipmanagement.

Jo Crisan, Senior Conference Producer at Seatrade Maritime, commented:

"Crew Connect Global continues to serve as a catalyst for change in the maritime workforce. By uniting the brightest minds and most influential leaders, we aim to shape a future where seafarers are empowered, valued, and equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow."

What to Expect at Crew Connect Global 2026

Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global 2026 promises a comprehensive experience, including:

A robust conference agenda featuring expert speakers and live polling to address the most pressing issues in maritime crewing.

A vibrant show floor expo showcasing cutting-edge crewing technologies, advanced training simulators, and innovative welfare solutions from leading global suppliers.

The prestigious Crew Connect Global Awards 2026, celebrating industry leaders and innovators, to be held on 21 October.

Key conference sessions include:

The Geopolitical Anxiety Crisis — Seafarers at the Intersection of Sanctions, War, and International Law

STCW Phase 2: 22 Gaps, a New Timeline, and Who Decides the Priority Order

Technostress, Cognitive Load & the Simulator Model: Training Seafarers for Ships That Don’t Exist Yet

Protecting Seafarers in the Rise of Abandonment, Criminalisation & the Dark Fleet

Delegates will also have access to structured networking sessions, private meeting spaces, and social events designed to foster meaningful connections.

Special Opportunities

Cadets, students, and seafarers can attend the event for free by contacting the Delegate Booking Team. Additionally, attendees registering before 17 July can take advantage of a Super Early Bird rate, offering significant savings.

For more information, including the full agenda, visit Crew Connect Global.