Cruise/Passenger ship evacuation : a human-centered evaluation for improvement
Document Type
Article Open Access
Publication Date
2026
Journal Title
Maritime Technology and Research
Volume Number
8
Issue Number
3
DOI
https://doi.org/10.33175/mtr.2026.285838
Abstract
This paper investigates the complex and multidimensional challenges affecting the efficiency of emergency evacuations onboard cruise/passenger ships. Despite the existence of a comprehensive regulatory framework established by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), which prescribes mandatory training activities, time-bound evacuation requirements, and strict technical safety standards, real-life experiences and a number of maritime incidents continue to expose critical deficiencies. Based on the comparison of literature review results with qualitative data gathered from surveys, semi-structured interviews among seafarers, and an onboard observation study, this research effort explores the human, organizational, and design-related attributes that inhibit timely and efficient evacuations. Analytical results have uncovered profound skepticism among seafarers around the feasibility of evacuating large cruise/passenger vessels within the established 30-minute regulatory timeframe, citing shortcomings in training, lack of psychological preparedness, and coordination/communication difficulties, particularly under stressful situations. The human element emerges as a very influential actor, with cognitive denial and poor safety culture frequently delaying effective responses during emergency situations. Recommendations deriving from seafarers themselves support (among others) the adoption of enhanced psychological training and better utilization of crews’ working language, as well as increased manning levels; future integration of evacuation technologies based on ethical standards also stands out. Improvements in emergency evacuation safety aboard cruise/passenger ships depend on the integration of seafarers’ practical experiences into both policy development and operational activities, opening the way towards fostering a proactive, human-centered safety culture throughout the concerned shipping sectors.