Signing a contract without paying a close attention comes at a price to a seafarer

The Seafarers' Union of Russia has repeatedly warned sailors about the need to examine carefully contracts before signing. However, as evidenced in practice, many continue to face unfortunate consequences due to a lack of attention or insufficient awareness. One such case happened to a seafarer from Kaliningrad who signed a contract with a large Far Eastern fishing company.

According to the signed document, the seafarer's salary was RUB19,400, and his main income consisted of bonuse. However, the contract specified an important detail: the company reserved the right to significantly reduce the amount of this bonus. As a result, for a 6-month autumn-winter voyage, the seafarer got only RUB270,000, although he expected much more. According to his calculations, the company should have paid him about another million rubles.

— The situation is complicated by the fact that the seafarer does not have a payslip on hand that would confirm his earnings. Almost two months have passed, but the issue with payments remains unresolved. The company does not refuse its obligations but does not provide clear information about whether additional funds will be paid and in what amount, - the Сhair of SUR Kaliningrad Regional Organization Lyudmila Izmalkova said. 

According to her, in this case, the seafarer can try to defend his rights in court, especially since the vessel is flying the Russian flag. "However, most likely, the judge will be guided by the terms of the contract, which, unfortunately, are not in favor of the employee. This case once again emphasizes that all the clauses of the contract should be carefully examined before its signing," - she concluded.

The Seafarers' Union of Russia strongly advises that seafarers contact SUR for advice before signing their contracts. Specialists will help to navigate the terms and conditions of the contract, to draw attention to controversial issues and avoid troubles in the future.

SUR reminds: the financial security of a seafarer starts with a careful attitude to the documents he signs.