The Narratives of Filipino Seafarers on Navigating the Multilingual Dynamics in the Maritime Industry: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

The maritime industry is inherently multilingual, with seafarers navigating diverse linguistic and cultural contexts as part of their daily work. For Filipino seafarers, who comprise a significant portion of the global maritime workforce, effective communication across languages is crucial not only for operational efficiency but also for their personal and professional well-being. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Filipino seafarers in navigating multilingual dynamics at sea, focusing on how they make sense of their encounters and how these experiences shape their professional and personal lives. A phenomenological research design was employed to capture and interpret participants’ perspectives. Seven Filipino seafarers, all with direct exposure to multilingual communication and active engagement with multinational crews, were purposively selected. Data were collected through in-depth interviews in which participants shared narratives about their communication practices, challenges, and coping strategies on board international vessels. The data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to identify patterns of meaning across individual accounts. Four key themes emerged. First, seafarers emphasized the importance of adaptive communication strategies, highlighting the need for flexibility, creativity, and patience in overcoming language barriers. Second, they emphasized the importance of multilingual competence for safety, teamwork, and career advancement. Third, participants described multilingual encounters as opportunities to build resilience, cultivate cultural awareness, and advance professional development. Ultimately, they recognized the importance of fostering interpersonal harmony through respect, empathy, and mutual understanding within diverse teams. Overall, the findings revealed that multilingualism was not only a challenge but also a transformative resource that enhanced adaptability, competence, and resilience. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of language in the maritime profession, underscoring the importance of preparing seafarers for the linguistic and cultural complexities of international seafaring.