UK must embrace cabotage to safeguard maritime jobs and seafaring skills

With 105 nations worldwide – covering 85% of global coastlines – already enacting cabotage laws to protect their shipping industries, the UK's lack of such measures stands out as a glaring omission.

Speaking on the release of a new report from Seafarers Rights International (SRI), Mr Dickinson highlighted how other maritime nations, from the United States and Canada to Norway and Brazil, have recognised the value of reserving domestic maritime trade for their own crews and vessels. This policy safeguards vital seafaring skills, supports local jobs, and strengthens national resilience in times of need.

'The evidence is clear: cabotage is about protecting the lifeblood of our coastal communities and ensuring well-paid, skilled jobs for British seafarers,' Mr Dickinson said. 'While measures like the tonnage tax and funding for training were introduced to support the sector, they have failed to grow the number of UK-flagged vessels and our maritime skills base. The time has come for decisive action.'

Mr Dickinson points to growing international competition, an eroding skills base, and the vital lessons of recent global crises as reasons why the UK can no longer afford to leave its merchant fleet and jobs unprotected.

'Cabotage legislation would mean that more of our coastal trade is carried by UK-owned ships, employing UK crews, governed by UK standards,' he explained. 'It's a win-win strategy – boosting our flag, building resilience, protect the marine environment and provide maritime professionals with secure and stable careers.'

Nautilus International is leading the campaign to build on the mandatory Seafarers' Charter and introduce cabotage legislation in the UK.

For more information and to take part in the Nautilus cabotage campaign, visit our website or contact your union representative.