Every mind belongs at sea.
We champion neurodivergent people across the maritime industry through information, engagement and education, so that talent and difference are recognised, accepted and nurtured.
Where would you like to start?
Information and tools, organised around who you are and what you need.
I'm a neurodivergent seafarer, or think I might be
Diagnosed, seeking a diagnosis or wondering? Your rights at work and at sea, support and next steps.
I sail or work with someone who is neurodivergent
Understand neurodivergent conditions and how to support neurodivergent crewmates and colleagues.
I employ, train or manage seafarers and maritime staff
Training, consultancy and practical help to build a neuroinclusive workplace, at sea and ashore.
I shape maritime standards, policy or research
Neuroinclusion standards, regulation, research and policy for the maritime sector.
The neurodivergent advantage.
Different minds solve problems differently. The maritime industry needs that now more than ever.
1 in 7
Neurodivergent people are already on board.
Around one in seven people are thought to be neurodivergent. Most crews include someone, whether or not they have said so.
48%
More productive, given the right support.
Neurodivergent staff in one JPMorgan Chase programme were up to 48% more productive than their colleagues.
21.6%
A talent pool the industry is missing.
In the UK, only around one in five autistic adults is in work, and the picture is similar in many countries. Many more want to be, and bring focus, pattern recognition and attention to detail.
24/7
Strengths suited to life at sea.
Calm in a crisis, deep focus on complex systems and fresh approaches under pressure are strengths many neurodivergent seafarers bring to watchkeeping and emergencies.
0
Barriers that need to exist.
Psychometric tests, rigid recruitment and a lack of understanding shut talent out. None of them are necessary, and all of them can change.
Help shape our maritime neuroinclusion standards.
We are developing the first standards for neuroinclusion at sea, and we want to hear from seafarers, employers and training providers.
Practical tools
Free, private and built with neurodivergent seafarers. Nothing you enter leaves your device.
Adjustment builder
Create a clear request for reasonable adjustments on board or ashore.
Disclosure guide
Decide whether, when and how to tell your employer.
ADHD medication map
Check the rules for carrying ADHD medication into ports worldwide.
ND dictionary
Plain-English definitions of neurodivergent terms.
Neurodivergent individuals face countless barriers preventing them from having a fulfilling career at sea.
Get involved.
Share your story, volunteer, donate or partner with us. Every voice helps make the industry more inclusive.
Latest news
Our new website is live
A new home for NeurodiversAtSea: practical guides, free tools and support for neurodivergent seafarers, their crewmates and maritime employers, designed to work for every kind of mind.
Talking neurodiversity at the Southampton International Boat Show
We joined a panel at this year's Southampton International Boat Show to talk about neurodiversity on the water, the barriers neurodivergent people face, and the strengths they bring to marine work.
The neurodivergent advantage at the Maritime People & Culture Conference
Our founder Daniel Smith spoke to maritime HR and people leaders in London about what neurodivergent people bring to the industry, the barriers they still face, and how employers can make the most of their talent.
