On Deck for 2026

Entering the year, expectations were high, and throughout 2025 we experienced steady demand across our markets, alongside further strengthening of both our organization and our ways of working. At the start of 2026, OffshoreCrew stands as a more established and internationally active company than one year ago.

A Market Defined by High Activity

From an external perspective, 2025 was characterized by a persistent imbalance between demand and access to qualified personnel. Across offshore and maritime segments, competition for experienced crew remained high, while the pool of available and certified personnel remained limited. This challenge was particularly evident in specialized roles and crane operations, where demand continued to increase.

The Norwegian market remains mature, and a growing share of activity is now internationally oriented. Norwegian companies are increasingly operating outside their traditional regions, with more internationally mixed crews and operations spanning multiple jurisdictions. Offshore wind continued to be a strong growth segment during 2025, contributing significantly to vessel utilization and demand for competent offshore personnel.

At the same time, regulatory complexity increased. One notable challenge was the growing difficulty for seafarers to obtain and renew UK working permits, adding pressure to planning, mobilization, and compliance. These developments reinforced the importance of structured processes and strong operational support onshore.

Strengthening the OffshoreCrew Team

A key driver of OffshoreCrew’s development in 2025 has been our people. During the year, we strengthened our Kristiansand office with several new team members, enhancing both capacity and resilience.

In January, Veronica Tjønsø joined OffshoreCrew as Senior Recruiter and HR Advisor, bringing more than ten years of experience in crew management and a deep understanding of our customer segment. The same month, Mona Skisland returned to OffshoreCrew as Digital Business Developer, contributing formal education in innovation and marketing combined with entrepreneurial experience.

In April, Janne Saure Hoel joined as Recruitment Coordinator after thirteen years offshore and with formal training in shipping management. The team expanded further in August when Helge Christopher Bjørnholm joined as Crew Operations and Logistics Coordinator, adding extensive experience from the Royal Norwegian Navy, the Coast Guard, and maritime safety training. Together, these additions have strengthened our operational robustness and ability to meet increasing client demand.

Operational Performance

Operationally, 2025 was characterized by high activity across vessel types and regions. OffshoreCrew delivered several larger projects, particularly in the UK sector, while maintaining a strong presence in the North Sea. Assignments included full and partial crew management on service vessels, up-manning projects, and vessel reactivations. High utilization levels were driven by offshore wind, walk-to-work operations, and consistent demand for experienced offshore crews, especially within AHTS operations where short-notice mobilization remains critical.

Internationally, OffshoreCrew supported projects in South America, the Caribbean, North America, West Africa, and parts of Asia. In parallel, activity within aquaculture increased, including wellboats, delousing operations, and service vessels. While these roles are well established, overall volume increased compared to previous years.

Internally, one of the most important achievements in 2025 was our ability to work smarter. Continued streamlining of processes, improved internal data sharing routines, and established workflows enabled shorter response times toward clients and better coordination across teams. A strong culture for cooperation and knowledge sharing proved essential in handling higher volumes and increased complexity. Improved digital visibility and updated design across platforms also contributed positively to our market presence.

Despite generally high turnover in the staffing market, OffshoreCrew continued to see strong continuity among its seafarers. Many crew members have worked with OffshoreCrew for extended periods, with several exceeding six consecutive years of service. This continuity remains a cornerstone of our operating model and client delivery.

Managing Complexity and Compliance

As clients expanded into new regions, OffshoreCrew supported operations involving multiple jurisdictions, including countries such as India and Angola. This further strengthened our expertise in compliance, reporting, payroll, and visa handling. Many crew members now hold multiple visas, enabling faster and more flexible mobilization.

Looking Ahead: Expectations and Hopes for 2026

Looking forward, OffshoreCrew expects activity levels in offshore wind, decommissioning, and traditional offshore operations to remain solid in 2026. Internationalization is expected to continue, both in terms of crew composition and operational footprint, alongside even higher demand for qualified personnel.

Regulatory developments will also shape the year ahead. New course requirements, including the upcoming STCW amendments aimed at preventing and responding to violence and harassment, are expected to lead to increased focus on mental health and wellbeing for seafarers. At the same time, stronger regulations for non-EU crew in Europe will add further complexity to crew logistics and planning.

Internally, OffshoreCrew’s priorities for 2026 include increased client visits, stronger presence at industry gatherings, and deeper engagement with both existing and new international clients. Continued focus on quality, proactive improvement, and development across departments remains central. We also aim to create better synergies between our crew management and recruitment teams to support higher volumes, more placements, and sustainable growth.

Well Positioned for the Year Ahead

Experience from 2025 reaffirmed the importance of OffshoreCrew’s core principles. Adequate onshore capacity, structured processes, and the ability to mobilize experienced crew at short notice remain essential under conditions of high activity and international complexity. Equally important is the value of long-term relationships with both clients and seafarers.

With a solid foundation, strengthened organization, and clear priorities, OffshoreCrew is well positioned for 2026 and the opportunities ahead.

Published 19.01.2026

This article has been edited with the assistance of AI and finalized, reviewed, and approved by human editors.