Anchoring Wellbeing at Sea
Respect and Anti-Intimidation Training
Respect and Anti-Intimidation Training
Delivered at a training centre or online
This maritime-specific course is designed to address and prevent intimidating behaviour on board vessels, with a focus on creating a respectful, safe, and psychologically supportive environment for all crew members.
Working in close quarters, under pressure, and for extended periods at sea can heighten stress and increase the risk of negative interpersonal dynamics. This course provides seafarers, officers, and shore-based managers with the knowledge and tools to identify, challenge, and prevent intimidating behaviour, while promoting a culture of mutual respect and professional conduct.
Participants will gain an understanding of what constitutes intimidation, how it differs from assertiveness or discipline, and the impact it has on team cohesion, safety, mental health, and performance.
Course Content
Course Objectives:
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
• Recognise the signs and forms of intimidating behaviour in maritime environments
• Understand the legal and organisational responsibilities related to workplace conduct at sea
• Identify the impact of intimidation on safety, performance, and mental wellbeing
• Develop skills to respond to and de-escalate intimidating behaviour
• Contribute to a respectful and psychologically safe shipboard culture
• Know how to report or support others in reporting intimidation effectively and appropriately
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Course Format:
Total Teaching Time: 4–6 hours (can be adapted)
Delivery Method: Presentation, facilitated discussion, case studies, scenario analysis, group work
Audience: Seafarers, officers, senior crew, safety officers, DPA/HR reps
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Course Content:
Module 1: Understanding Intimidation at Sea
• Definitions and examples: intimidation, bullying, harassment
• How it manifests in maritime settings
• Intimidation vs. leadership: the fine line
• Cultural and hierarchical challenges on board
Module 2: The Impact of Intimidation
• Psychological and emotional toll on the crew
• Effects on safety culture and operational risk
• Links to fatigue, retention, and morale
Module 3: Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
• Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and company policies
• Rights and protections for crew
• Captain's and officers’ duty of care
Module 4: Responding to Intimidation
• Bystander strategies and assertive communication
• De-escalation techniques in confined environments
• Supporting affected crew members
• Confidential reporting channels and support mechanisms
Module 5: Building a Respectful Culture On Board
• Role modelling and leadership behaviours
• Setting expectations and managing conflict constructively
• Encouraging open dialogue and feedback at sea