The maritime industry is navigating some of the most complex crew management challenges in its history, and this year’s Crew Connect Global is set to address these critical issues with the help of some of the sector’s foremost decision-makers.

Taking place from 20–22 October 2026 at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, Philippines, the event will bring together shipowners, associations, charities, educational institutions, and other key stakeholders to tackle the pressing challenges facing maritime crewing, training, and seafarer welfare.

Joanne Crisan, Senior Conference Producer, highlighted five sessions that will resonate across the industry. She noted that while it was difficult to select just a few from the extensive programme, certain sessions stand out due to their universal relevance. These include the Opening Plenary, which will explore the geopolitical anxiety crisis and its impact on seafarers caught at the intersection of sanctions, war, and international law. Other key sessions will address the hidden costs of managing the officer shortage, the rise in abandonment and criminalisation of seafarers, the challenges of training crews for rapidly advancing technologies, and the growing gap between regulatory rest-hour compliance and actual fatigue levels.

Andreas Nordseth, appointed as Chair of the agenda, will oversee discussions at the world’s leading event dedicated to maritime crewing. Joanne Crisan emphasised the importance of the event’s participants, stating, “We’ve got the right people in the room for these discussions. From shipowners to associations, charities to educational establishments, we can list the likes of BIMCO, Holland America Line & Seabourn, ITF, Philippines Shipowners Association, International Chamber of Shipping, World Maritime University, ISWAN, and OSM Thome – all committed to enacting change for crew.”

In addition to the conference sessions, the event will feature a dedicated expo showcasing cutting-edge crewing technologies, training simulators, and welfare solutions from leading global suppliers. Delegates will also benefit from structured networking sessions, private meeting spaces, and social events designed to foster meaningful connections.

Until 23 August 2026, attendees can take advantage of a 10 per cent discount on their tickets. The event has already attracted participation from major industry players, including Wilhelmsen Ship Management, Anglo-Eastern, Columbia Shipmanagement, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement, Teekay Shipping, Marlow Navigation, BW Group, Synergy Marine Group, Holland America Group, and the Norwegian Shipowners Association.

Crew Connect Global 2026 promises to be a pivotal event for the maritime industry, offering actionable insights and fostering collaboration to address the most pressing challenges in crew management. For more information and to register, visit Crew Connect Global.