Smartphones have become an integral part of all our lives, particularly for seafarers, on land as well as out at sea.

Apps for smartphones have not only changed the way we communicate but also how we organise, remember things and entertain ourselves.

Apps such as Whatsapp, Facebook and Skype have become integral mediums for people – whether seafarers or not – to keep in touch with their loved ones.

However, as well as personal usage, apps are also being used for professional applications to provide smartphone users with essential data and information with utmost ease of access.

Which is why we have compiled a list of some of the most important maritime mobile apps seafarers must have on their smartphones, no matter where they go.

1. Shore Leave

The ITF Seafarers Trust have launched a new version of their app, Shore Leave.

The app once downloaded still functions offline, all contacts are stored in the seafarer’s phones and are easily accessible at any time.

The latest version of the app aims to encourage more seafarers to visit port-based centres and to have more fun using the app. It features a raffle system using a QR code, seafarers receive an electronic raffle ticket when they visit centres listed in the app. A winner is selected every 4 months.

The app also includes a map feature, which seafarers can use while online or download for use offline. They will be able to post pins on the map about the places of interest in particular ports or cities so that others can see recommendations for sport facilities, transport systems and much more.

To download for Android devices, click here.

To download for iOS devices, click here.

2. Wellness at Sea

The Wellness at Sea app is a companion app for the ‘Wellness at Sea’ programme, run by Sailors’ Society – a UK based charity that works around the world with merchant seafarers-  designed to help seafarers be more aware of their own wellbeing.

Traditionally delivered as a workshop format to multiple delegates in a port, they wanted to produce a complimentary resource that could be used by the seafarer whilst at sea. The tool would need to empower seafarers to take responsibility and monitor their own wellness in between ports.

The app allows seafarers to track daily progress against Physical, Intellectual, Spiritual, Social and Emotional wellness and provides feedback on how they are doing against previous days.

Seafarers can search for the vessel they are on and get details of the next port along their journey including information on Seafarer Centres and Chaplains in the area.

Amongst other resources the app also includes the entire Bible, reading material from the Sailors’ Society and information on the rights of a seafarer.

To download for Android devices, click here.

To download for iOS devices, click here.

3. my-ankaa 

If you haven’t already, download the my-ankaa app which will revolutionise the way you manage and send your documents to the office, easily see at glance how much time you have spent on each vessel through our sea service analytics, as well as so much more.

Once you have set up your profile, a CV is automatically built for you and you can send this or copies of your documents to the Agency or the office at a click of a button without using up any of your data. You will also receive document expiry alerts and reminders straight to your phone. To find out more about my-ankaa and what it can do for you click here

To download for Android devices, click here.

To download for iOS devices, click here.

4. Currency Convertor

We’re assuming you might already have this one but if you don’t then this is worth the download. Since you’re constantly changing countries and time zones, a currency converter such as the XE currency converter app, is a must have.

The XE currency convertor app offers live proprietary currency rates, charts and even stores the last updated rates, so it works when the internet doesn’t!

To download for Android devices, click here.

To download for iOS devices, click here.

5. First Aid App

Not specifically made for seafarers, but the “First Aid” app by American Red Cross and British Red Cross features free, simple and lifesaving advice on everyday first aid scenarios, as well as tips on how to prepare for emergencies.  The information is all hosted on the app itself, meaning no internet connection is needed, making it fast and easy to access.

To download for Android devices, click here.

To download for iOS devices, click here.

All of these apps are available for free so get downloading now!