Illness is the main cause of seafarer deaths in Britannia claims data

Illness was linked to most crew deaths recorded by Britannia P&I, according to its new Crew Claims Report, cited by Splash 247 . The findings show that cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in the data and highlight the need for more attention to seafarer health and wellbeing.

Britannia reviewed around 3,000 crew-related claims from the 2023/24 and 2024/25 policy years. Illness accounted for 81% of fatalities, while injuries made up the remaining 19%. Cardiovascular conditions were responsible for 58% of illness-related deaths.

The report also found a worrying pattern among younger seafarers. Suicide and cases of seafarers missing at sea were more common in this group. Accidents continue to be an important risk for crews. Hand and finger injuries were the most common type, making up 27% of injury claims. More than one-third of deaths caused by injuries involved man-overboard incidents.

Illness claims covered many different conditions. Abdominal problems were the largest group, while dehydration-related kidney stones were a particular concern for seafarers working in hot environments. Overall, illness made up 60% of all crew claims, compared with 36% for non-fatal injuries and 4% for fatalities.

For shipowners and managers, the report points to the need for a wider approach to crew safety. Alongside preventing accidents, companies should pay more attention to cardiovascular health, early medical support, hydration and mental wellbeing.

 

Picture: Magnific