Random Acts of Kindness Day & the Maritime Industry

Every year on February 17th, people around the world celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day, a time dedicated to spreading positivity and goodwill. Whether on land or at sea, kindness has the power to uplift spirits, strengthen relationships, and create a more supportive environment. 

For those working in the maritime industry - both seafarers aboard commercial vessels and office-based professionals - there are countless ways to participate in this meaningful day.

Why random acts of kindness matter in maritime

Working in the maritime industry can be demanding, especially if you work in a job at sea or offshore. Long hours, extended periods away from family, and high-pressure environments can all take their toll. But a simple act of kindness can make all the difference, providing a morale boost and fostering a culture of support and camaraderie.

For seafarers, life at sea can be isolating, and small gestures of kindness can help maintain a positive atmosphere on board. For maritime office workers, daily tasks can be stressful, and offering kindness to colleagues can enhance workplace relationships and improve overall job satisfaction.

With that in mind, we thought we’d come up with some ways that you might want to participate in Random Acts of Kindness Day, whether you’re working on a ship or in a shore-based maritime job.

Acts of kindness for anyone working in a seafarer job

Working on a commercial vessel, such as a cargo ship or tanker, can be challenging. Being away from home for extended periods means that crewmates often become a second family. Here are some ways seafarers can participate in Random Acts of Kindness Day:

1. Helping a fellow crew member

If a crewmate is struggling with a task, offer to lend a hand. Whether it’s assisting in maintenance work, helping with paperwork, or covering a watch shift, small acts of support can ease the workload.

Read more:5 Ways to Improve Life Onboard by Being a Better Crewmate

2. Sharing food and treats

Bringing an extra snack to share with a fellow crewmate or making a cup of tea or coffee for someone, can brighten a fellow seafarer’s day.

3. Writing a positive note

Leaving an encouraging note in the crew mess or on a crewmate’s locker can boost morale. A simple “You’re doing great” or “Thank you for your hard work” can have a lasting impact.

4. Checking in on a coworker’s well-being

Long voyages can take a toll on mental health. Taking the time to ask how a coworker is doing and offering a listening ear can provide emotional support and strengthen team bonds.

5. Organizing a small event

Something as simple as arranging a movie night, a friendly card game, or a group workout session can create a community atmosphere and relieve stress on board.

6. Keeping common areas clean

Taking the initiative to tidy up shared spaces such as the galley, gym or recreation room without being asked is a considerate gesture that benefits everyone - especially the messman!

Acts of kindness for office-based maritime professionals

For those working in shipowner offices, manning agencies, ports, and management, showing kindness can create a more positive and efficient work environment. Here’s how office-based professionals can celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day:

1. Complimenting a colleague

Recognizing a coworker’s efforts and accomplishments, whether in person or via email, can be a great morale booster.

2. Bringing in treats

A box of donuts, a fresh pot of coffee, or even just some fruit or nuts for the team can brighten the office atmosphere.

3. Offering to help with a task

If a coworker is overwhelmed with crew changes, maritime recruitment issues or other tasks, offering assistance or taking on a small part of their workload can ease their stress.

Read more: Why Collaboration in Maritime Recruitment is Crucial

4. Sending an encouraging email or post-it note

A short message of appreciation, whether to an individual or a whole team, can go a long way in making people feel valued.

5. Organizing a team lunch or drinks

Taking a break together allows coworkers to unwind and strengthen their working relationships, whether it’s ordering pizza to the office, going out for lunch, or happy hour drinks after work on a Friday.

6. Holding the door or greeting others warmly

Simple gestures like holding the door or elevator open or greeting coworkers with a warm smile and a kind word set a friendly tone in the workplace.

7. Supporting a charitable cause

Encouraging office staff to contribute to a maritime charity that supports seafarers or coastal communities is a meaningful way to give back on a bigger scale.

The ripple effect of kindness

Kindness is contagious. A single random act of kindness can inspire others to do the same, creating a chain reaction of goodwill. In the maritime industry, where teamwork and mutual support are essential, fostering an environment of kindness can lead to stronger connections, higher morale, and improved well-being for all.

Making kindness a daily habit

While Random Acts of Kindness Day is celebrated on February 17th, kindness should not be limited to a single day. Seafarers and office professionals alike can incorporate small, thoughtful gestures into their daily routines to build a culture of compassion and support year-round.

Final thoughts

Whether on land or at sea, kindness has the power to transform the work environment. This Random Acts of Kindness Day, take a moment to show appreciation for those around you, whether it’s a crewmate on a ship or a coworker in the office. 

A small act of generosity can make a world of difference and leave a lasting impact on the maritime community.

How will you celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day this year? Why not hop over to one of our social media accounts and let us know in the comments. You can find Martide on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter / X, Bluesky and Instagram. And if you’re not following us on any of those, definitely come and give us a like or follow!