The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has launched a new app to help seafarers get the information and support they need while working.

A new app for seafarers, launched by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), is a chance for those working at sea to have safety advice, checklists and important resources at their fingertips.  

The Official MCA Guidance app will provide seafarers useful, practical information on how to be safe at sea, as well as how to prepare for important parts of the job like vessel surveys and inspections.

The app also includes resources designed to support and maintain seafarers’ physical and mental health.

Seafarers are part of an incredible and unique industry, but this can come with periods of hardship, pressure and prolonged isolation, sometimes with limited services. It’s an MCA priority to support seafarers at all times, in particular helping with any challenges or health-related obstacles they may face.  

The Official MCA Guidance app is just one way we can assist seafarers – providing an easy-to-use and informative tool that can help answer their questions, while providing basic step-by-step guidance offline even without connection to wifi.

This is an important first step in delivering vital safety advice right into the hands of those who really need it, the seafarers. The app will continue to develop and grow over time. All that seafarers need to do is download it to their smartphone.

Virginia McVea, Maritime and Coastguard Agency Chief Executive, said:  

"It’s a priority for the MCA to ensure that we do all that we can to make the experience of seafarers better.  

"This app and its further development will allow a closer connection and easier access to information and assistance."

Download the Official MCA Guidance app for free through the Google Play or Apple iOS stores.

Feedback is welcome – tell us what you think about the app and what you need from it, to help the MCA and partners continue its development.