A new collective bargaining agreement has been reached between ver.di, the German trade union representing seafarers, and the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR). The 30-month contract, effective from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, delivers real wage increases for thousands of officers and ratings working on German-flagged vessels.

The agreement provides a total wage increase of 8.5 percent spread across three stages:

1. 4.0 percent starting July 1, 2025
2. 2.5 percent starting July 1, 2026
3. 2.0 percent starting July 1, 2027

In addition, seafarers will receive a one-time inflation compensation payment of €1,500 (tax and duty-free) paid in two installments in 2025 and 2026.

Both sides highlighted that the package exceeds expected inflation rates over the contract period, meaning German seafarers will enjoy a genuine growth in purchasing power for the first time in several years. The deal also includes improvements to weekend and holiday allowances, extended leave regulations for long-serving crew members, and better conditions for trainees and cadets.

The negotiations concluded earlier than planned, giving shipowners and crew members planning certainty well ahead of the busy 2025-2026 crewing season. Ver.di described the outcome as “fair and future-oriented,” while the VDR emphasized that the agreement keeps German-flagged shipping competitive despite rising operational costs.

For maritime training centers and cadets preparing rating or officer careers, this contract reinforces the attractiveness of employment under the German flag. Higher real wages, predictable salary progression, and stronger social benefits make German ships an increasingly appealing career choice compared to open-register vessels with less regulated pay scales.

Source: The Maritime Executive