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