As we move into a new year and 2026 beckons, many of us use this as a time for reflection and consider our next move when it comes to our career.
It’s estimated that there are around 1.5 million to 2 million active seafarers globally and whilst working on the water has many benefits, many seafarers leave sea work early due to family reasons, health, work-life balance, or a shift to shore-based jobs. Research shows that the length of a seagoing career is reducing as younger entrants increasingly expect to switch ashore within 10–15 years rather than stay at sea until traditional retirement age.
We spoke to several people in the maritime industry who had successfully made the move from a seafaring career to a shore-based role and asked them for any advice they’d give to someone considering a similar move.
One of those people is Claims Handler, Sarah Bloomer. As a Master Mariner, she was at sea for 10 years and in the latter part of her seafaring career she also remotely undertook her MSc in Sustainable Maritime Operations. She was placed in her first shore-based role by James Stares at Spinnaker. James told us that from the outset the client loved Sarah’s unique perspective and her seafaring experience brought something different to the table.
We asked her a series of questions, hear what she had to say in the article below:
1.What careers are available to Seafarers looking to move ashore?
“When considering a move ashore, it can feel daunting because of the vast array of sectors open to you after a career at sea. With my experience on cruise ships and offshore vessels, I explored options in ship operations, port management, renewable energy (wind), accident investigation, surveying, and marine technology.
Having worked exclusively at sea since graduating from university, I worried that I had no clear direction and could easily make the wrong choice – ending up in a role I didn’t enjoy. Spinnaker helped broaden my perspective even further, and today I work in the marine insurance industry – something I had never previously considered.”
2.Is there any advice you’d give to those looking to come ashore?
“My biggest piece of advice is don’t rush the decision. I planned my move ashore for about 18 months before it happened, making sure I gained as many qualifications as possible to strengthen my appeal to shore-based employers.
The Coming Ashore program, run by the Marine Society, was invaluable. It provided professional guidance and mentoring, helping me identify and address any additional skills I needed to feel fully equipped. Take time to explore all your options and aim for a role you believe you’ll genuinely enjoy.”
3.Are there any reasons why you felt it was time to come ashore?
“From the start of my career, I set a goal: achieve my Master Mariner Unlimited licence and then reassess. The main driver for coming ashore, however, was the desire to settle down and start a family. Spending over seven months a year away was something I couldn’t reconcile with having children especially given the lack of maternity benefits offered by most shipping companies.
At the beginning of 2024, I achieved my Master’s licence. Around the same time, opportunities arose for me to gain experience as Chief Officer. While I had already started looking for shore-based roles, I knew senior management experience would make me stand out. After gaining that experience, I learned the next project would prevent me from sailing in that position for two years. The prospect of no career progression for such a long period was the deciding factor – it was time for a change.”
4.What you think working at sea has given you that sets you apart in a shore-based role?
“Life at sea equips you with a unique and highly valuable skill set. Some key strengths include:
Considering a move ashore?
Find out more about the shore-based roles on offer on the Spinnaker jobs page.