The acquisition of the requisite skills and knowledge to be a competent seafarer is highly dependent on the quality of education and training received in shore-based maritime education and training institutions (METIs) and practical training on ships termed “onboard training”. However, challenges arise in the implementation of onboard training, with diverse factors potentially having a significant influence on its execution. This study aimed to identify these challenges and factors as perceived by METIs. Using semi-structured interviews and focus groups, data from key individuals responsible for onboard training from 48 METIs, 25 seafarers, and 74 students was collected and qualitatively analysed using thematic analysis. The resulting findings offer insights into the challenges associated with implementing onboard training and the factors that impact its effectiveness. The insights identified are crucial for determining effective approaches to onboard training from the METIs’ perspective. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2025.
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