Celebrate the people behind the Red Ensign on Merchant Navy Day with The Seafarers Charity

Merchant Navy Day, celebrated on 3 September, is dedicated to honouring the contributions of the men and women who embody the Merchant Navy. We invite you to join us all at The Seafarers’ Charity in paying tribute to our merchant seafarers, both past and present.

Today, our merchant seafarers enable approximately 95% of the UK’s trade which moves by sea. Without seafarers, our shops, chemists, and supermarkets would face empty shelves. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK Government recognised Merchant Navy workers as key workers, reflecting their vital role in maintaining the supply chain.

In 1928, HM King George V recognised their invaluable contribution by appointing a member of the Royal Family as the Head of the Merchant Navy, honouring their service with the same respect given to the armed forces.

On Tuesday 3 September, our campaign celebrates the people behind the Red Ensign, the official flag of Britain’s Merchant Navy. Fondly referred to as the ‘Red Duster’, it symbolises the pride and dedication of our merchant seafarers. It also represents the enduring nature of the merchant seafarers who fly it. Despite their critical role and Royal acknowledgement, these hardworking individuals don’t always receive the recognition or support they deserve. On Tuesday, 3 September, we have an opportunity to come together to recognise the important role merchant seafarers play and to say ‘thank you.’ Let’s honour these hardworking individuals, and raise the public’s awareness of how crucial they are to our economy and security, together as a community.

Get Involved
There are several ways you can join us in honouring merchant seafarers:

• Fly the Red Ensign: Raise the Red Ensign on a flagpole at your home, office, or community centre on 3 September to show your support for Britain’s merchant seafarers.
• Digital Support: Share your support on social media by using the hashtag #MerchantNavyDay. A social media toolkit and digital assets will be available on our website at the beginning of August, including a message of support to our merchant seafarers from our President, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.
• Spread the Word: Invite your friends, family, and colleagues to get involved in the Merchant Navy Day via word of mouth, email, newsletters, or social media.
• Order Window Stickers: Please email marcomms@theseafarerscharity.org by 9 August to request free car window stickers to help raise awareness of our campaign. Donations to cover printing and shipping costs are greatly appreciated.

Your participation sends a powerful message of gratitude and recognition to our seafarers, and your involvement is key to raising the awareness and appreciation of the UK’s reliance on merchant seafarers. You can make this happen on Merchant Navy Day.