The Rise of Abandoned Oil Tankers and the Plight of Seafarers

• The number of abandoned oil tankers and commercial ships has surged dramatically in recent years.
• Many of these vessels are left in perilous conditions, often without proper provisions for their crews.
• A significant contributor to this trend is the geopolitical instability affecting global trade and shipping routes.
• The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has reported that thousands of seafarers are victims of abandonment, with many owed substantial wages.
• Countries like India have taken steps to blacklist vessels linked to abandonment issues, highlighting the need for regulatory reform.

The maritime world is witnessing a troubling trend: a sharp increase in the number of abandoned oil tankers and other commercial ships. Over the past year alone, reports indicate that the phenomenon has escalated, leaving many sailors stranded without proper support or provisions. The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) has noted that in 2025, there were 410 ships abandoned globally, a significant rise from just 20 vessels in 2016. This alarming increase has left over 6,200 merchant sailors in dire situations, grappling with hunger, lack of medical care, and uncertain futures. The crew of one abandoned vessel, which remains unnamed for their protection, shared their harrowing experience. Ivan, a senior deck officer from Russia, described the dire circumstances aboard the ship, noting severe shortages of essential supplies like food and clean water. The crew's health and morale have plummeted as they struggle to survive, often living day by day. This particular tanker, laden with approximately 750,000 barrels of Russian crude oil valued at around $50 million, was reported abandoned in December after the crew had gone months without pay. Despite the vessel's substantial cargo, it remains stuck in international waters, unable to dock due to the precarious nature of its ownership and operational status. The ITF has intervened to provide the crew with essential supplies and has managed to recover some of the unpaid wages owed to them. However, many crew members, including Ivan, continue to endure the uncertainty of their situation. The rise in abandoned ships can be attributed to several factors, with geopolitical instability being a significant driver. Ongoing conflicts around the world, coupled with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have resulted in volatile supply chains and fluctuating freight costs. This environment has made it increasingly difficult for operators to remain financially viable, leading to abandonment as a troubling outcome. Additionally, the emergence of shadow fleets, often comprising older vessels with obscure ownership, has exacerbated the situation. These ships frequently sail under flags of convenience-countries that impose minimal regulations on shipping operations. This practice allows shipowners to evade legal responsibilities, contributing to the growing number of abandoned vessels. The ITF has highlighted that many of these ships are not only unseaworthy but also pose significant risks to their crews. The organization has reported that in 2025, 82% of abandoned ships were flagged under such dubious registries. The shadow fleet phenomenon is particularly concerning in the wake of sanctions imposed on countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which have sought alternative routes to export their oil. Russia, for instance, has faced limitations on its crude oil pricing following its invasion of Ukraine, prompting it to find new buyers willing to pay a premium. This has led to an increase in the use of shadow fleets, which operate in the shadows of international law. The plight of seafarers caught in these situations is dire. According to data from UN agencies, the total wages owed to abandoned maritime crews reached $25.8 million last year. The ITF has managed to recover nearly two-thirds of this amount, but the financial strain on sailors remains significant. Among the most affected groups are Indian sailors, who account for about 18% of the total number of abandoned seafarers, followed by Filipinos and Syrians. In response to the growing crisis, the Indian government has taken steps to protect its seafaring community by blacklisting 86 foreign vessels linked to abandonment and rights violations. Investigations into these vessels often reveal untraceable ownership and a lack of response from flag states, raising further concerns about the safety and security of maritime workers. Mark Dickinson, General Secretary of Nautilus International, has criticized the lack of accountability from flag states, asserting that there must be a genuine connection between shipowners and the flags under which their vessels operate. This sentiment echoes international maritime law, which mandates such a link but lacks a universally accepted definition. The case of Ivan's ship underscores these challenges, as it was sailing under a false Gambian flag that was unregistered and unknown to Gambia. It has since been provisionally accepted under the flag of another African nation, which is reportedly investigating the vessel. The uncertainty surrounding these ships often leaves crews in limbo for extended periods. Ivan's experience has prompted him to reconsider his future as a seafarer. He expressed a desire to conduct thorough research on any ship he might join, ensuring that he is aware of the vessel's condition, payment practices, and any potential sanctions or bans it may face. The risks associated with shadow fleets and the abandonment of vessels highlight the need for greater international cooperation to safeguard the welfare of seafarers. As the maritime industry continues to grapple with these challenges, the voices of those affected must be heard, and meaningful action must be taken to address the systemic issues that allow for such abandonment to occur. The human impact of these abandoned vessels extends far beyond the ships themselves, affecting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of sailors who find themselves stranded in a world that often overlooks their plight. The call for reform in maritime practices and stronger protections for seafarers has never been more urgent as the shadowy world of abandoned oil tankers reveals the harsh realities faced by those who work at sea. As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for stakeholders within the maritime industry, governments, and international organizations to collaborate on solutions that prioritize the safety and rights of seafarers worldwide. By addressing the root causes of abandonment and promoting responsible shipping practices, it may be possible to create a more equitable and secure environment for those who rely on the sea for their livelihoods. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but the stories of individuals like Ivan serve as a powerful reminder of the human cost of abandonment in the maritime industry, urging all involved to take action and work towards meaningful change. Furthermore, the maritime sector must advocate for stricter regulations on ship registration and ownership transparency. The introduction of more robust international frameworks could help mitigate the issues surrounding shadow fleets and the abandonment of vessels. Countries must also enhance their enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with maritime laws and protect vulnerable seafarers. The plight of abandoned seafarers is not just a maritime issue; it is a humanitarian crisis that requires immediate attention and action from the global community. Only through concerted efforts can we hope to address the systemic challenges that lead to the abandonment of ships and the suffering of those who work tirelessly on them.