The University of the Aegean and Edinburgh Napier University have joined forces to create a survey for seafarers to understand the communication options available on board ships, particularly when it comes to the internet, and to get to the heart of shipping industry retention.

The survey is confidential, and will count towards essential research for the universities' combined project, the KNOWME project.

The project's main concern is the growing shortage of maritime professionals, especially qualified merchant marine officers. This entails the significant risk of decreased competitiveness of the European maritime industry in general. The findings will generate strategies for improving the image and awareness of the maritime industry.

To complete the survey, visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/SeafarerSurvey.