Life of Female Seafarers: Stationed at the Port of Durban: A Study

Women have taken to sea, serving on board ships which were previously a male dominated industry. They can be found at all levels in the industry. They have historically constituted a small percentage of seafarers. They continue to establish themselves in the maritime sector at all levels, despite traditional perceptions that seafaring is reserved exclusively for men. Women seafarers from Russia, England and China have always been part of the maritime industry. The presence of women lends itself to new and complex areas of development on board cargo vessels, cruise, passenger ships and ferries. Women face many challenges to maintain a growing presence and growth as seafarers. While the demands and expectation of women may vary, common for all, are the challenges that faced in maintaining a healthy work life while also paying close attention to their family responsibilities. This paper seeks to explore the challenges that female seafarers experience on boards ships at sea; while at the same time maintaining and nurturing a relationship with their family.