What Secrets Lie in the World of Abandoned Oil Tankers?

The dramatic rise in the number of abandoned oil tankers and commercial ships around the world has become a pressing concern. This situation, highlighted by the experiences of maritime professionals like Ivan, stems from a combination of geopolitical instability, economic pressures, and the prevalence of "shadow fleets." The human impact on affected merchant sailors is profound, with many facing severe hardships in terms of food shortages, unpaid wages, and uncertain futures.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The current maritime landscape is marked by an alarming increase in ship abandonments. Reports suggest a sharp rise from 20 cases in 2016 to over 410 in 2025, affecting thousands of seafarers. Many vessels, like the one Ivan is aboard, remain stranded in international waters, unable to dock due to their owners' financial failures and lack of regulatory oversight. This abandonment not only jeopardises the crew's safety and well-being but raises significant alarms regarding the broader implications for global shipping and trade.

Key takeaways

Abandonment of ships has surged dramatically, with over 410 cases reported in 2025.
The rise is attributed to geopolitical instability, economic pressures, and the emergence of shadow fleets.
Abandoned crews often face severe hardships, including unpaid wages and lack of basic necessities.

Timeline: how we got here

The issue of ship abandonment has evolved significantly in recent years:

2016: Only 20 ships abandoned worldwide.
2020: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates supply chain issues.
2022: Russia's invasion of Ukraine leads to increased sanctions and shipping challenges.
2025: Reports show 410 ships abandoned, with 6,223 seafarers affected.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent reports indicate that the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has been actively intervening to provide assistance to abandoned crews, including arranging food, water, and repatriation efforts. These actions highlight the ongoing crisis faced by seafarers amid increasing abandonment rates.

What was already established

It has been previously established that geopolitical factors, such as sanctions against countries like Russia and economic instability due to the pandemic, have significantly impacted shipping operations. The emergence of shadow fleets, which often operate under flags of convenience, has further complicated the landscape, leading to greater risks for seafarers.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK consumers, the abandonment of ships can lead to supply chain disruptions, affecting the availability and prices of goods. Fluctuations in oil transport could also impact fuel prices, influencing household energy costs.

Businesses and jobs

Businesses reliant on shipping may face increased costs and delays due to abandonment issues, affecting sectors from retail to manufacturing. The maritime industry's instability could also lead to job losses and reduced hiring as companies grapple with operational uncertainties.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may need to consider stronger regulations and international cooperation to address the challenges posed by ship abandonment. This could involve stricter enforcement of maritime laws and support for seafarer rights to ensure their safety and well-being.

Numbers that matter

410 ships reported abandoned in 2025, a significant increase from previous years.
6,223 merchant seamen affected by abandonment situations globally.
$25.8 million owed in total wages to abandoned seafarers last year.
$16.5 million recovered by the ITF for affected workers.
18% of abandoned seafarers were Indian nationals, the highest percentage of any nationality in 2025.

Definitions and jargon buster

Abandonment: When a shipowner fails to provide necessary support to seafarers, including repatriation and payment of wages.
Flag of Convenience (FOC): A practice where ship owners register their vessels in countries with lax regulations to reduce costs and oversight.
Shadow Fleet: A collective term for vessels, often older and unregulated, used to bypass sanctions and regulations.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Monitoring the situation for Ivan and his fellow crew members will be crucial as their fate remains uncertain. The ITF's ongoing efforts to provide assistance will need to be observed closely.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As international scrutiny increases, we may see more robust regulations introduced to prevent ship abandonment, particularly for vessels operating under flags of convenience. This could involve enhanced collaboration between countries to ensure compliance with maritime laws.

Signals to watch

Changes in governmental policies regarding maritime regulations.
Reports from the ITF on the status of abandoned ships and their crews.
Shifts in international shipping routes and practices related to oil transport.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about maritime regulations and the status of shipping operations.
Support organisations working to protect seafarers' rights and welfare.
Engage in discussions about the importance of ethical shipping practices.

Don’t

Ignore the issues faced by seafarers and the implications for global trade.
Assume that all shipping practices are regulated and safe.
Overlook the significance of international cooperation in maritime safety.

Checklist

Research the shipping companies you engage with for ethical practices.
Monitor news regarding maritime regulations and abandonment cases.
Consider supporting initiatives aimed at improving seafarer welfare.
Stay aware of changes in fuel prices and related economic impacts.
Engage in conversations about the importance of transparency in shipping operations.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation regarding abandoned ships remains fluid, with many variables at play, including geopolitical tensions and economic shifts. The exact number of shadow fleet vessels and their conditions are often difficult to ascertain, complicating efforts to protect seafarers. Additionally, the effectiveness of proposed regulatory changes will depend on international cooperation and enforcement.

Bottom line

The increasing trend of ship abandonments poses significant challenges for both seafarers and the global maritime industry. With the number of affected sailors rising sharply, there is an urgent need for coordinated international action to safeguard their rights and welfare. As the shipping landscape continues to evolve, stakeholders must prioritise ethical practices to ensure the safety of those who navigate our oceans.

FAQs

What is causing the rise in ship abandonments?

The rise in ship abandonments is attributed to geopolitical instability, economic pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the increasing prevalence of shadow fleets operating under flags of convenience.

What are the human impacts on affected sailors?

Affected sailors face unpaid wages, food shortages, and poor living conditions, leading to significant mental and physical health challenges.

How can we support seafarers facing abandonment?

Supporting seafarers can involve advocating for stronger maritime regulations, donating to organisations like the ITF, and raising awareness about the challenges they face.