Become a volunteer

Since its opening, the Seafarers’ Centre has seen nearly 2,000 people come through its doors. However, we are always looking to expand our team. The volunteers of the Seamen’s Club have very varied roles. The night shifts start at around 5pm and end at around 11pm. There is also a carpooling solution within the team for anyone who does not own a car.

A weekly calendar allows volunteers to choose the evenings they will be present at. If you are unable to attend, the only condition is to inform a member of the team so that they can be replaced. 

Welcome host

Volunteers greet the seafarers upon their arrival at the centre. They exchange currencies, then run the souvenir shop, bar or sandwich shop. During the evening, the seafarers share stories, memories, anecdotes, family photos and most importantly, build friendships with the volunteers. 

Minibus driver

Every day, between 4.30pm and 10.30pm, two drivers come and go as calls are received from ships moored at the quays. The communication is made through the operators on the tankers, the agents on the ore carriers or directly with the sailors. The drivers transport the seafarers back and forth between the quays, the centre and the supermarket. However, they must be holders of a valid driving licence and no longer be young drivers.

Visits on board

During the day, onboard visits are planned. These visits are aimed at any ships with short port calls or with the impossibility to spend the evening at the Seafarers’ Centre. During these visits, the volunteer informs the seafarers about the services dispensed by the association. He also provides moral support and proceeds with the sale of phone cards.

One-off volunteering

Volunteers can occasionally participate in restoration work like garden maintenance, shutters painting, as well as the preparation for different events, like decorating the center for Christmas and preparing Christmas gifts. These tasks usually take place during the day along with a convivial meal (with the staff).