The Global Maritime Forum (GMF) says the number of seafarers stuck on board vessels beyond the expiry of their contracts has fallen to its lowest level since it started compiling figures in May 2021.

The Copenhagen-based body said the number of seafarers aboard vessels beyond their contracted terms had fallen to 3.6%, according to its Neptune Crew Change Indicator, and the number stuck on board for more than 11 months had decreased to its lowest level of just 0.4%.