When you’re running a business, few things are more sensitive than your employee benefits, especially health insurance. If you’ve been feeling like your current insurance provider just isn’t cutting it anymore, you’re not alone. According to a 2024 study by Mercer, 63% of employers will actively evaluate new insurance providers due to rising costs, administrative burdens, or inadequate support (Mercer, 2024).

But making the switch doesn’t have to mean chaos for your HR team or confusion for your employees. With the right approach, the transition can be nearly seamless.

At MHG Insurance, my colleague Jetta Gadea and I help companies switch insurance providers with confidence. Here’s how we recommend doing it.

Why Companies Switch Insurance Providers

You might be considering a change because your current insurance provider:

● Doesn’t offer better value or flexibility

● Has poor communication and slow support

● Has limited plan options for your diverse and growing team

And you wouldn’t be alone in this. A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation found that health insurance premiums for employer-sponsored plans increased by an average of 7% in the past year (KFF, 2023). That’s a tough hit for small and midsize businesses trying to control costs.

When you’re paying more and getting less, it’s time to explore alternatives.

How to Change Insurance Providers Without Disrupting Your Team

1. Talk to Your Insurance Broker

Your insurance broker is your best ally and should be your first stop. Share what's not working, whether the coverage, a weak provider network, high costs, or something else. A good broker will try to negotiate improvements with your current provider or explore alternative options that may be a better fit.

Tip: Don’t wait to share these concerns with your insurance broker at renewal. Raise concerns as they come up so they can be addressed.

2. Start Early! Ideally, 90 Days Before Renewal

If you’ve decided you want to see what other options are available, give your insurance broker enough time to collect quotes and compare options. 90 days prior to your plan renewing is a good guideline. Rushing the process can lead to lapses in coverage, poor onboarding, and frustrated team members. At MHG, we create custom transition timelines so nothing falls through the cracks.

3. Lean on Our Expertise to Navigate the Market

The insurance market is constantly evolving, and not every option is straightforward. That’s where having a team like ours comes in. We listen to your business goals and employee needs, then research and present plan options that:

● Keep costs predictable

● Offer flexibility in coverage levels

● Are accepted by the doctors your team uses most

This high-touch service means you won’t spend hours comparing apples to oranges. We do the heavy lifting and explain everything in simple terms.

4. Communicate With Your Team Early and Often

According to a 2024 SHRM survey, 52% of employees say they are confused by their benefits options (SHRM, 2024). To avoid frustration or anxiety during open enrollment:

● Hold short info sessions or Q&As with your team. We can help or even run these for you.

● Provide comparison charts to explain what’s changing

● Have an expert on-hand (like one of us!) to answer questions in real time

Clear, confident communication helps your employees feel supported and informed throughout the switch.

What to Look For in a New Insurance Provider

Not all insurance providers are created equal. When evaluating new options, make sure they offer:

● Plan flexibility that matches your team’s real-world needs

· Strong provider network that ensures your team has access to a wide range of doctors and hospitals, wherever they are, especially if you have employees working remotely or employees in multiple states

● Technology tools for easy enrollment and management

● Compliance and regulatory support to help you stay compliant and up to date on regulations

· Financial strength and a good reputation for paying claims and providing good service

● Proven experience with businesses of your size

At MHG, our team is your team. We understand that a 20-person business doesn’t need the same solution as a 200-person one. That’s why we customize everything, from plan structure to rollout strategy.

Don’t Forget: Compliance and Transition Support

Changing insurance providers isn’t just about choosing new coverage. You also need to manage:

● COBRA notifications

● ACA compliance

● Plan terminations and new plan onboarding

A good insurance partner doesn’t leave you to navigate these steps on your own. Our team guides you through each step and works closely with your previous provider to ensure that nothing is missed.

How MHG Insurance Makes It Easy to Switch

With over three decades of experience helping businesses worldwide, MHG Insurance understands the complexities of employee benefits. We’re a full-service brokerage, which means we:

● Work for you, not the insurance company

● Build personalized plans based on your budget and goals

● Handle the details so you can focus on your business

Changing insurance providers might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. When you partner with MHG, you get a team of advocates who guide you every step of the way.

Whether you're in yachting, marine, or simply a U.S.-based business looking to improve your benefits, we are here to help and make the process easier.

Ready to explore your options? Let’s talk.

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Sources

● Mercer. (2024). Health & Benefits Strategies for a New Era.
https://www.mercer.com/en-us/insights/total-rewards/employee-benefits-strategy/2024-benefit-strategies-report/

● Kaiser Family Foundation. (2023). 2023 Employer Health Benefits Survey.
https://www.kff.org/report-section/ehbs-2023-summary-of-findings/

● Society for Human Resource Management. (2024). SHRM Employee Benefits Survey.
https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/benefits/pages/2024-benefits-survey.aspx

We recently spoke with Sherry Wertz, the Director of the Cruise Division at MHG Insurance, about the evolution of Crew Benefits in the cruise industry, emerging trends, and how cruise employers are improving their benefits to address challenges in attracting and retaining talent.

With over 30 years of experience in the cruise industry, Sherry is a well-recognized authority on Crew Benefits. Her career began onboard before she transitioned into senior management roles across multiple cruise lines, concessionaires, and companies supporting the cruise sector. Sherry’s extensive industry knowledge and Crew Benefits expertise allow her to connect easily with both seagoing crew members and corporate leaders, understand their challenges, and provide effective solutions.

Let’s dive in! 

 

Q: MHG has been providing insurance advice and guidance to the cruise industry for over 30 years. How have Crew Benefits, and the industry's approach to providing them, evolved during that time?

Years ago, health benefits were mostly just for senior officers in the Deck and Engine departments. But that’s really changed. More and more employers are seeing the value in offering health coverage to all officers and crew. Offering some form of healthcare coverage not only supports the well-being of employees but also benefits employers by creating a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.

 

Q: What key factors have driven these changes, from regulatory requirements to shifting crew expectations?

The Maritime Labour Convention, or MLC, really helped set the standard for protecting the welfare of crew at sea. It holds cruise lines accountable and makes sure they’re meeting those requirements. On top of that, with so much information available online now, crew members are more informed than ever. They know their rights, understand what fair treatment looks like, and are more aware of the standards that should be in place.

 

 

Q: With attraction and retention continuing to be a challenge, how does investing in Crew Health insurance impact recruitment and long-term retention of officers and crew?

Competitive recruitment is essential. Many officers and crew are looking for employers who value their contributions. Providing a strong Crew Benefits package is a powerful way to show that appreciation and stand out as an employer of choice.

 

Q: What are cruise lines doing to differentiate their benefits packages to stay competitive in attracting and retaining top talent?

More and more cruise employers are expressing interest in offering retirement or loyalty bonus packages to their officers and crew. These plans can be started with just a small group of participants and a modest investment, then allowing them to grow over time. It’s a great way to help your team plan for the future while also encouraging them to stay with you. While we don’t handle this directly, we work closely with a trusted financial services partner who has over 40 years of experience in this area.

Q: Are there specific benefits that have been particularly effective in improving crew satisfaction and engagement?

Dependent coverage, for sure! Crew members appreciate being able to add their spouse or children to the health insurance plan. Even if the crew member has Vacation Only coverage, the dependent coverage is in effect year-round, offering their families continuous coverage and peace of mind.

Q: Based on your experience, is medical coverage still the most valued benefit among crew, or are other benefits gaining importance?

Yes, medical coverage is still the number one benefit that officers and crew really value.

Q: Costs are always a concern. How can cruise lines strike the right balance between offering competitive coverage and managing expenses effectively?

Providing a Vacation Only plan for a small group of officers and crew can be a good option for employers wanting to provide benefits but who may have a tight budget. Another option may be to select a higher deductible, which helps keep costs down while still giving your crew meaningful coverage. It’s all about finding the balance between value and expense.

Q: Are there cost-effective ways to enhance coverage without significantly increasing premiums?

Again, higher deductibles can help manage costs while still offering valuable coverage. Make sure you’re also tailoring the plan to your crew. For example, if the insured population does not include U.S.-based members, excluding U.S. coverage can lower costs while making the plan fit your team’s needs better. It’s really about adjusting the plan to what makes sense for your crew.

 

Q: What advice would you give to smaller, boutique cruise lines that have recently entered the market and may not have an established crew benefits program yet?

Start small. Consider offering a Vacation Only plan with a deductible to your senior officers. It’s a smart way to keep costs manageable while still giving your crew meaningful benefits. Plus, it sets a solid foundation you can build on as your Crew Benefits program grows down the road.

Q: Looking ahead, what Crew Benefits trends should the cruise industry be preparing for over the next 5 to 10 years?

Start preparing now to expand your benefits. Medical for officers, crew, and their dependents is key now, but employers should be looking to add Long Term Disability and Life insurance as well as Retirement or Loyalty Bonus-type packages in the future.

 

Q: Is there anything else that cruise line management may not be thinking about when it comes to Crew Benefits, but should be?

I think crew mental health and overall well-being deserve far more attention. While organizations like ISWAN offer valuable resources such as Seafarer Help, I’d like to see more cruise line employers take a more proactive role in championing mental health support onboard.

Having worked at sea, I know how rewarding a career at sea can be but also how isolating and challenging it is sometimes. Making mental health resources more visible, accessible, and embedded in company culture could make a significant difference in crew morale, productivity, and retention.

 

Q: MHG introduced benefits to the industry over 30 years ago. What do you think keeps us competitive and at the forefront of the industry today?

It is our expertise and our commitment to client service. Clients say we take the time to understand their insurance needs and respond quicker to their questions and requests than anyone else they've worked with. Some have even asked if they're our only cruise client, which is the ultimate compliment and says a lot about how personalized our service feels. Just a few weeks ago, we got that kind of feedback again.

Officers and crew also regularly thank us for being there for them, whether answering coverage questions or helping with claims. We enjoy our jobs and genuinely care. That really makes us stand out.

Thank you, Sherry, for sharing your Crew Health expertise with us. Your passion for the cruise industry and dedication to helping employers offer the best possible benefits really shines through. MHG is known for providing expert guidance and personalized service that truly makes a difference for both employers and crew. To learn more, visit mhginsurance.com or get in touch with us directly.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – January 29, 2025 – MHG Insurance, a leading international insurance brokerage and advisory firm, is delighted to announce the appointment of Guillaume Lange as Managing Director of the company’s new entity currently being formed in Antibes, France. This step shows MHG’s commitment to growing its presence and improving services in the Côte d’Azur.

In his new role, Lange will focus on supporting MHG’s yacht and marine business, developing new relationships, and expanding the company’s presence in the Côte d’Azur. Lange brings over a decade of international private medical insurance experience and has worked with leading insurance companies in Europe and Asia.

“Joining such a talented and respected team is a privilege,” commented Guillaume Lange. “MHG’s reputation for delivering expert insurance advice, tailored solutions, and outstanding client service truly sets them apart in the industry. I’m excited to contribute to and build upon this success.”

Situated in Antibes, the new office represents MHG Insurance’s third European location and a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy. Establishing a permanent presence in the South of France allows MHG to be closer to business partners, clients, and crew, supporting more direct and accessible service.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Guillaume to the MHG team,” said MHG Insurance CEO, Alastair Macmillan-Bell. “With his extensive experience in international private medical insurance, his personable nature, collaborative approach, and dynamic leadership style, Guillaume is an excellent addition as we continue to expand our presence in Europe.”

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, MHG Insurance also has offices in the Isle of Man and Hamburg, each staffed by specialists dedicated to providing the marine industry with top-tier insurance guidance and solutions. MHG is deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, offering a positive and family-like work environment that remains central to its identity.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is a global insurance brokerage and consulting firm focusing on the marine industry. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, wellness solutions, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance, and financial services, all supported by a comprehensive attention to serving our clients at the very highest standards. Well-regarded in the marine community, MHG is known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and for creating MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. To learn more, please contact mhginsurance.com.

Alastair Macmillan-Bell joins MHG with over 35 years of insurance experience.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida (May 19, 2022) – MHG Insurance, an international insurance brokerage and advisory firm, announced today the appointment of Alastair Macmillan-Bell as Group CEO of the MHG Group of Companies, effective May 23rd, and will be based in their Fort Lauderdale offices. Andrew Dudzinski, Co-Founder and former Chairman and CEO, will assume a new role as the group’s Executive Chairman.

A veteran of the insurance industry, Macmillan-Bell has over 35 years of insurance experience focusing on the marine & energy market, cruise, and travel sector, along with international maritime medical services. His past business development roles, extensive client-focused relationships, international carrier partnerships, and numerous leadership positions will contribute significantly to the ongoing success of MHG. Most recently, Macmillan-Bell served as Senior Vice President for a leading international Risk and Human Capital solutions firm.

“I am very pleased to see Alastair assume the CEO role,” said Dudzinski. “With his extensive insurance background and international experience, Alastair comes uniquely qualified for this opportunity. I’m looking forward to working with him, and we are very excited at the opportunities we have to continue accelerating our growth across our business. We will be identifying new solutions that will contribute to our current industry position to generate even greater awareness of the MHG companies, as we take full advantage of the MHG brand as a leading insurance provider in the maritime industry.”

With over 30 years of expertise in crew employee benefits to the yacht, cruise, and commercial shipping industry, MHG is known as an international market leader in this very important arena of crew health. MHG’s solutions also extend to ship repairers, entertainers, concessionaires, shore excursion operators, and tour operators. MHG has hull and P&I insurance expertise for small charter fleets and some very nuanced products for yacht charter cancellation coverage. 

“I am thrilled to join MHG and to begin working with the very talented team that is in place across our international offices,” said Macmillan-Bell. “The MHG team is at the core of what we do. Their passion is inspiring, and their dedication to serving our very valued clients is the heartbeat of the MHG companies. As I take on this new role, I look forward to using my experience and working with my new colleagues to continue the significant growth that has been achieved to date while identifying new solutions that will add economic value to all stakeholders.”

MHG has offices in the U.S. and Europe, staffed with a team of insurance specialists dedicated to delivering marine insurance solutions, and are experts in the intricacies of all different types of insurance products and the regulations they must comply with. MHG has built a culture of inclusion and continues to build on this important aspect of its business, providing colleagues with great opportunities and an exceptional work environment. MHG has been recognized as a “Best Places to Work,” has an extremely low turnover rate, and truly instills a “family” atmosphere that is embedded in the company’s fabric.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is a global insurance brokerage and consulting firm focusing on the marine industry. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, wellness solutions, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance, and financial services, all supported by a comprehensive attention to serving our clients at the very highest standards. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. For more information about MHG Insurance, please visit mhginsurance.com.

DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN (March 24, 2022) – MHG Insurance has announced the promotion of Cathy Lane to Managing Director of the Isle of Man operation, MHG Ocean Benefits Limited. In addition to being Head of Compliance, Cathy will continue to oversee MHG’s operations throughout Europe.

Before this promotion, Cathy joined MHG in 2011 as the first full-time employee in MHG’s Isle of Man office. She was tasked with building a team that could support the company’s European clients, and due to her work ethic and success, she quickly earned the role of Director, European Operations in 2012. Alongside her daily responsibilities, Cathy is an advocate for the Isle of Man’s marine industry and serves on the Executive Committee for Isle of Man Maritime.

“Cathy has been crucial to our success in Europe,” said Andrew Dudzinski, MHG Chairman and CEO. “Since her first day here, Cathy has worked hard and displayed a level of dedication that is invaluable. The goals she has achieved make this promotion and added responsibility an easy decision for MHG. We are excited to see what she can accomplish in the future.”

“MHG has always provided a supportive environment in which anyone can flourish and I am happy to continue that tradition. “ said Cathy. “I’m grateful to the Board for their confidence and look forward to helping MHG build on the successes achieved so far.”

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is an independent, global, full-service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com.

DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN (February 22, 2022) – MHG Insurance announced today the promotion of Jack Okell to Senior Analyst. In this newly created key position, Jack is responsible for collating data, conducting high- and low-level data analysis, and internal and external reporting. Jack actively works within MHG’s Lloyd’s of London coverholder operation to ensure requirements are satisfied, and to improve MHG’s delegated authority capabilities. Jack also handles International Special Risks, assisting clients with sourcing cover appropriate for their needs from both the London market and wider company markets.

Prior to this promotion, Jack joined at MHG as an intern in 2016, and quickly worked his way up to a full-time position. With this new promotion, it shows that MHG is continuing to grow, largely due to the dedication and commitment of its team members.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is an independent, global, full-service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com.

MHG Marks 30 Years with a Fresh New Look and Office

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (January 19th, 2021) – MHG Insurance is marking its 30th anniversary since introducing crew benefits to the marine industry. Thirty years and over tens of thousands of captains, officers, and crew insured, MHG continues to develop crew benefit plans to make the industry a better place to work and live.

Founders, Andrew Dudzinski and John Haagensen, launched MHG after industry growth and ensuing competitive pressures, cruise lines needed new ways to attract and retain their officers and crew. Dudzinski, with a background in expatriate insurance programs, and Haagensen, a former seafarer and practicing insurance agent, saw the solution in creating and providing customized crew benefits plans. Dudzinski and Haagensen combined their extensive experience and contacts to convince the industry that seafarers are better motivated, remain more loyal, and work more safely when a benefit plan is provided as part of an employment package.

“While hesitant at first, the cruise lines listened, and once the competitive advantages were understood, benefit plans were implemented by many lines,” said Andrew Dudzinski, MHG’s Chairman and CEO. “Other marine industry sectors, such as luxury yachts and commercial shipping, followed soon after.”

Three decades on, MHG is recognized not only for developing innovative crew benefit programs for the maritime industry but also for providing liability and casualty coverage for ship repairers, contractors, entertainers, and cruise concessionaires, in addition to hull and P&I insurance for pleasure craft.

Today, MHG provides insurance solutions, insight, and advice to many of CLIA’s global member cruise lines. In 2018, MHG released a ground-breaking report on the cruise industry’s shipboard benefits provision, which has been updated and released to clients every other year. On the yacht side, MHG provides yacht crew insurance to hundreds of yachts, including 20% of the world’s top 100 largest yachts. In 2018, MHG partnered with The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) to investigate wellness issues specific to the yachting industry. The survey findings were shared with the industry and highlighted the need for mental health awareness.

“We’re so proud of the achievements and lasting impact that we have made in the marine industry,” said MHG’s Chief Revenue Officer Mark Bononi. “While we have successfully introduced and made crew benefits more mainstream in the industry, our work is not done. We will continue to be at the forefront of developing and implementing a full range of crew benefits solutions, all designed specifically for the marine industry.”

MHG has offices in the U.S. and Europe, staffed with a team of insurance specialists experienced in the marine environment, and are experts in the intricacies of all different types of insurance products and the regulations with which they must comply. In addition to the efforts to impact the industries they serve, MHG also strives to implement a culture for its employees that is second to none. From day one, they have practiced what they preach when it comes to taking care of employees and have seen the positive effects firsthand. MHG has been recognized as a “Best Places to Work,” has an extremely low turnover rate, and truly instills a “family” atmosphere that many businesses try to promote.

As part of its 30^th anniversary, MHG is also launching a new logo and moving its U.S. offices a few blocks from its current location to 1800 SE 10th Avenue, Suite 320, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316.

Looking ahead, MHG plans to continue to expand its reach throughout the marine industry, with the same purpose and idea they were founded on. With an updated look and new offices to call home, we can’t wait to see what’s in store.

About MHG Insurance

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance is a global insurance brokerage and consultative facility, with a focus on the marine industry. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance, and financial services, all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits and advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (January 6, 2020) – MHG Insurance Brokers, the cruise industry’s crew health insurance specialist, announced today the promotion of Sherry Wertz to Director, Cruise Division. In this key role, Wertz will lead MHG’s Cruise Division, one of the company’s founding departments. MHG introduced benefits to the cruise industry, making it a better place to work and live, and with this appointment will look to further advance the livelihood and well-being of those within the industry.

Prior to this appointment, Wertz was MHG’s Senior Manager, Operations, responsible for managing cruise line accounts. A veteran of the cruise industry, Wertz has more than 30 years’ experience working for various cruise lines, concessionaires, and other companies supporting the industry. Wertz joined MHG in 2016.

Wertz will report to Mark Bononi, MHG’s Chief Revenue Officer, and will be supported by Kelly Morris, Claims Specialist.

“Sherry is a pleasure to work with and is a great fit for this role,” said Bononi. “With her dedication to service and compassion for the crew, Sherry truly epitomizes the MHG spirit.”

While MHG’s focus was initially on captains, officers, and crew, the company has enjoyed continuous growth and has since grown into a multi-discipline marine insurance brokerage and adviser. This year, the company will mark its 30th anniversary with the release of a new company logo, social media campaign, and celebrations later in the year.

About MHG Insurance Brokers

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance Brokers is an independent, global, full-service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance Brokers and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com.

From today, professional yacht crew anywhere in the world will be able to access 24-hour support via Yacht Crew Help, a new helpline launched by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN).

Despite the many benefits of working on board a superyacht, the challenges of working away from home for long periods and living in close quarters with colleagues can become overwhelming. In a 2018 survey of superyacht crew, ISWAN found that 82% of superyacht crew experienced low crew morale sometimes, often or always, and 55% of female respondents found accessing mental health care to be an occasional or regular challenge.

Prompted by these findings, ISWAN set up a steering group of representatives from across the superyacht industry and collaborated to develop Yacht Crew Help – a free, confidential, multilingual helpline for professional yacht crew. Whatever problem someone is facing, wherever they are in the world, Yacht Crew Help will be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to provide guidance and support. The helpline is run by ISWAN, a charity which promotes the welfare of seafarers working in all sectors of the maritime industry. The helpline officers are trained in counselling skills, suicide risk assessment and providing emotional support to crew all over the world, and the team is connected with a wide range of organisations to help yacht crew find further support.

ISWAN’s Executive Director Roger Harris said: ‘Although the superyacht industry can be glamorous, the demands on crew are very high and living in your workplace away from loved ones can be tough. With Yacht Crew Help, we want to make sure that men and women working on superyachts can easily access the support available to them worldwide whenever they need it – free of charge, day or night. We are incredibly grateful to all of our partners for helping us develop a service tailored to professional yacht crew and their specific needs.’

Captain Brendan O’Shannassy, President of the ISS Captain’s Committee and one of the key members of the Yacht Crew Help steering group, said: ‘The most valuable component of the superyacht industry are the crews. Yacht Crew Help will be key to educating and supporting yacht crew as they strive to deliver the excellence demanded by the industry. ISWAN are a highly credible non-commercial entity to provide this support without crew having any concern of commercial compromise when raising personal concerns.’

Crew members, whether they are currently on board or ashore, can currently contact Yacht Crew Help via three different contact methods:

Telephone: +44 (0)20 3713 7273 (a call back can be requested via the Yacht Crew Help website)

E-mail: help@yachtcrewhelp.org

Live Chat: via www.yachtcrewhelp.org

A range of information, guidance and resources on issues affecting yacht crew is available on the Yacht Crew Help website at www.yachtcrewhelp.org, including mental health and wellbeing, bullying and harassment, sexual assault, substance misuse and employment concerns.

Yacht Crew Help would not be possible without the support and guidance of a number of key companies and organisations: Y.CO (Official yachting partner); Bond Technology Management & Consultancy (Primary partner); Burgess (Gold sponsor); MYBA (Gold sponsor); LYBRA (Gold sponsor); The Professional Yachting Association; Nautilus International; wilsonhalligan; MHG Insurance Brokers; United Advisers Marine; Yotspot; AYSS; Yachting Matters; Superyacht Charities; Impact Crew; International Superyacht Society; and Superyacht Services Guide.

For more information about Yacht Crew Help, please contact ISWAN’s Project Manager, Caitlin Vaughan: caitlin.vaughan@iswan.org.uk.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

International Seafarers' Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN): A charity and membership organisation which works to promote and support the welfare of seafarers all over the world. The free, 24-hour, multilingual helpline, SeafarerHelp, is one of the direct welfare services that ISWAN provides to seafarers. Others include relief funds for seafarers and their family members in need and a range of health information resources. ISWAN works with companies, unions, governments, welfare organisations and ports for the implementation of the ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006. ISWAN supports those who establish and provide welfare facilities and services in port and on ships. ISWAN is funded by membership subscriptions, grants from foundations, sponsorship and earned income. For more information, visit www.seafarerswelfare.org.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (September 29^th, 2020) – MHG Insurance Brokers announced today that Celene Good has joined the team as a Staff Accountant. In this role, Good will provide assistance to our Accounting Department.

Good joins MHG with over 15 years of accounting experience. Good previously worked as a Staff Accountant at a facilities & property management services company, and more recently an Accounting Assistant at a landscape and design company in South Florida. She graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 2013.

“Celene is an experienced Accountant whose skills and expertise are needed as MHG continues to grow,” said Katherine Pajor, MHG’s Chief Financial Officer. “Her experience with accounting software made her a logical candidate. Her presence will help us to expand the roles of others, allowing us a greater opportunity to achieve our internal goals.”

MHG Insurance Brokers has been providing insurance guidance and solutions since 1991. The company has established an unrivalled reputation for providing quality insurance products that meet clients’ coverage requirements and budget.

About MHG Insurance Brokers

Established in 1991 in Miami, Florida, MHG Insurance Brokers is an independent, global, full-service insurance brokerage and consultative facility. Through its extensive relationships with international underwriting markets, MHG develops and provides a full range of employee benefits, risk mitigation programs, property and casualty insurance, and financial services all supported by comprehensive attention to service support for all of our clients. In the marine community, MHG is well known for its expertise in the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and developing MLC-aligned crew insurance solutions. In the U.S., MHG provides group and individual employee benefits along with advice on federal regulations regarding the Affordable Care Act. For more information about MHG Insurance Brokers and the services we provide, please visit mhginsurance.com.