18^th of May 2026 marks the International Day for Women in Maritime. As the International Maritime Organisation is hosting an event under the theme ‘From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence’, we at Spinnaker would like to take this opportunity to join the conversation, sharing our insight into the industry.

Much has been said about the issues the industry faces when it comes to gender equality. Yes, without a doubt male employees are still prevalent in maritime – they occupy higher positions, receive larger bonuses and dominate in higher-paid roles. Historical and societal context shaped maritime industry so, and it will take time to balance it out.

However, it doesn’t mean the maritime industry isn’t changing. Starting with the maritime gender pay gap almost three times larger than the UK national percentage, in 2025 the UK mean gender pay gap (shore-based roles) reduced by 8.49% compared to 2017 (the first year of mandatory gender pay reporting in the UK). The proportion of female executive leaders in maritime globally grew from 11% in 2020 to 17% in 2025.

In our most recent article we covered the benefits of mandatory gender pay gap reporting in the wake of the EU Pay Transparency Directive deadline creeping closer. So far, member states are waiting for clear guidance from their governments on how to approach this on the company level, but our People & Culture Conference 13/14^th May 2026 showed that initiatives to bring forward gender equality are already emerging worldwide.

Mentorship and visible role models have a lasting impact on female careers in maritime – as shown in practice by The Women Officers Network at Carnival. New Sexual Harassment Legislation is placing more focus on awareness, prevention and reporting of harassment and assault onboard, making ships a safer place for all seafarers, but especially women. The Scarlett Box initiative is designed to provide menstrual comfort, dignity and preparedness for female seafarers, making a male dominated environment more inclusive.

How does it all translate to shore-based roles?

Seafaring experience drives higher salaries, naturally making gender pay gaps wider due to the lower number of women at sea. Driving change at sea means more women will remain in the industry on-shore.

Of course, we can’t expect gender pay gap to close overnight but the maritime industry is on the right track.

And we, at Spinnaker, are always happy to help you calculate your individual gender pay gap – just email [email protected] to get your bespoke report.