The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) is the most important document for your career at sea. It is often called the "seafarers' bill of rights" and it applies to virtually every commercial vessel worldwide. Yet most seafarers I meet have only a vague understanding of what it actually says.

What is the MLC?

Adopted by the International Labour Organization in 2006 and entered into force in 2013, the MLC sets minimum working and living standards for all seafarers on commercial vessels. As of 2026, it has been ratified by over 100 countries representing more than 96% of world shipping tonnage. This means it applies to almost every vessel you are likely to work on.

Your key rights under MLC

Working hours and rest

• Maximum 14 hours of work in any 24-hour period
• Maximum 72 hours of work in any 7-day period
• Minimum 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period (can be divided into no more than 2 periods, one of which must be at least 6 hours)
• Minimum 77 hours of rest in any 7-day period

These limits are not suggestions — they are legally binding requirements.

Employment agreements

• You must have a written employment agreement before joining
• The agreement must clearly state: wages, working hours, leave entitlement, health benefits, repatriation terms, and termination conditions
• You must receive a copy of the agreement
• Minimum notice period for termination must be specified

Wages

• Wages must be paid at least monthly
• Payment must be in full, with clear itemization of any deductions
• No hidden fees or unauthorized deductions
• Currency conversion must be at a fair rate

Repatriation

• You have the right to be repatriated at the end of your contract at no cost to you
• This includes transportation to your home country
• The shipowner cannot require you to pay for your own repatriation

Medical care

• Access to medical care on board at no cost
• Shore-based medical care when needed, also at shipowner expense
• Medical fitness must be verified before joining

Living conditions

• Adequate accommodation — minimum cabin sizes, ventilation, lighting, sanitary facilities
• Quality and quantity of food and drinking water
• Recreation facilities
• Access to communication (this is increasingly interpreted to include internet access)

What to do if your rights are violated

1. Document everything. Keep a personal log of working hours, rest periods, and any violations. Take photos if relevant.

1. Report to the Master. The first step is always internal reporting. Put it in writing.

1. Contact your flag state. Every flag state has a maritime authority responsible for enforcing MLC compliance.

1. Port state control. When in port, you can file a complaint with the local port state control authority. They can inspect the vessel and issue deficiencies.

1. Contact ITF. The International Transport Workers' Federation has inspectors in major ports worldwide who can assist you.

Where to read the full text

The official text is available free on the ILO website. It is over 100 pages of legal text, but Title 2 (Conditions of Employment) and Title 3 (Accommodation, Food, and Catering) are the sections most relevant to daily life on board.

Knowledge is protection. Know your rights.