Abstract
Nowadays there is substantial shortage of seafarers mainly owing to the very small number of new entries into the marine profession. The Greek merchant fleet needs competitive human resources management. This paper is based on a study titled 'An Analysis of the Greek Manpower Market in the Ferry and Cruise Industries'. We attempt to define the variables that affect the quantity and quality levels of seafarers, employed in passenger and cruise markets, and present the current trends of the seafaring profession. Using system dynamics we retain the existing qualified seafarers by improving their competitiveness and reducing manning costs.