What is biggest challenge of Seafarers while communicating?

The biggest challenge that seafarers face while communicating is the limited access to reliable and affordable communication, nework services while they are at sea or at sea port. Due to the remote and isolated nature of their work, seafarers often experience poor connectivity and limited access to communication services, which can make it difficult for them to stay connected with their loved ones and the rest of the world.

Some of the specific challenges that seafarers face when communicating include:

Limited Network Coverage: Seafarers often operate in remote areas of the ocean where mobile network coverage is limited or non-existent. This can make it difficult for them to make voice calls, send text messages, or access the internet using their mobile devices.

While technology has improved communication at sea, there are still many areas where internet and phone connectivity can be unreliable or non-existent. This makes it challenging to maintain consistent communication with family, friends, and colleagues.

Distance and Isolation: Seafarers spend weeks or months at sea, far from land-based communication infrastructure. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, making it difficult to stay in touch with loved ones and support networks.

High Cost: Even when mobile network coverage is available, seafarers may face high communication costs, as maritime roaming charges can be very expensive. This can make it difficult for seafarers to stay within their budget while communicating with their loved ones. At sea, only sattelite connectivity is available, making it very high costs communication. 

Limited Bandwidth: Seafarers often share bandwidth with other crew members, which can lead to slow internet speeds and limited access to online services. This can be frustrating for seafarers who need to access information or communicate with others online. Secondly, not all countries have 4g/5G ready network, which results into even slower speeds. 

Time Zones: Ships travel across different time zones, making it difficult to coordinate communication with people in different parts of the world. This can lead to missed calls and misunderstandings.

Technical Issues: Seafarers may also face technical issues with their communication equipment, such as satellite phones or internet routers, which can make it difficult for them to stay connected with their loved ones and the rest of the world. Even mobile handsets comptability in certain networks causes trouble. 

Language Barriers: Many seafarers come from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and English is often used as the common language on ships. Language barriers can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings, which can impact safety and efficiency.

Overall, the limited access to reliable and affordable communication services is the biggest challenge that seafarers face when communicating, which can have an impact on their mental health and well-being while they are at sea.