Crewtoo, the online social network for seafarers and a part of KVH Industries, Inc., (Nasdaq: KVHI), has published the results of its third Crewtoo Seafarers Happiness Index report.

Designed to monitor and benchmark seafarer satisfaction levels via 10 key questions, this third quarterly report shows a seafarer satisfaction level of 6.37 on a scale of 1 to 10, which is virtually unchanged from the 6.44 overall level reported in August. However, the questions about connectivity and shore leave emerged as key issues among seafarers.

With connectivity, seafarers’ responses indicated that there is growing disparity in Internet access: Some seafarers now get good, often cheap or even free access; some can occasionally gain access – but with cost or technical issues; and, some have no connectivity at all.

This edition of the report shows that a number of respondents feel that insufficient investment is being made in ensuring ongoing, high-speed, and quality connections, and that those without Internet access liken conditions to being in the “stone age.”

The latest Crewtoo Seafarers Happiness Index also reveals a three-tiered system in shore leave: There are some seafarers who get good shore leave access and opportunities; those who can occasionally get ashore – but not without difficulty; and those who are denied even the most basic of shore leave.

Responses highlighted that the greatest proportion of seafarers face the double jeopardy of poor quality, expensive, or non-existent connectivity, and difficult, expensive, or non-existent shore leave.

full article at : http://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/crewtoo-seafarers-happiness-index-shows-widening-gap-in-connectivity/