Twenty years ago, Marine Benefits was founded with a simple but important purpose – helping shipowners support seafarers and their families through access to healthcare. Since then, the company has grown alongside a rapidly changing maritime industry, adapting to new technologies, evolving customer needs and a more connected world.
As Marine Benefits celebrates its 20th anniversary, we look back at how both the company and the industry have evolved since 2006.
From Local Beginnings to Global Reach
Then
Marine Benefits began in Bergen, Norway. The concept was pioneering for its time, providing health insurance not only for seafarers at home, but also for their families ashore.
Now
Today, Marine Benefits serves close to 235,000 people worldwide, with operations spanning Norway, the Philippines, Sweden and Greece. What began as a small initiative has developed into a global organisation supporting maritime communities across the world.
From Paper Processes to Digital Platforms
Then
Marine Benefits identified the value of technology early on, investing in an in-house IT platform for data, analytics and reporting in 2010.
Now
Digital platforms, analytics and reporting capabilities are now central to how Marine Benefits supports members and clients. Through member portals, mobile applications and a dedicated client portal, clients also gain access to detailed reporting and insights, helping them better understand usage patterns and make informed decisions.
From Insurance Provider to Trusted Partner
Then
The primary goal was to provide valuable health coverage for seafarers and their families, helping shipping companies attract and retain qualified crew.
Now
While that mission remains at the core of the business, Marine Benefits has expanded its role to become a long-term partner for shipping companies, supporting them through insights, reporting, wellbeing initiatives and a deeper understanding of crew health needs.
From Regional Teams to International Collaboration
Then
Marine Benefits was a small organisation with big ambitions.
Now
Teams across Norway, the Philippines, Sweden and Greece work together every day, combining local expertise with a global perspective. Despite the company’s growth, collaboration and commitment remain central to how Marine Benefits operates.
What Hasn’t Changed
Over the past two decades, technology, regulations and market conditions have evolved dramatically. The company has navigated financial crises, a global pandemic and significant industry change.
Yet one thing has remained constant. Supporting the people at the heart of shipping remains central to everything Marine Benefits does. While the company has evolved since 2006, its purpose remains much the same as it was when the journey began.