The only options for seafarers who have no access to public transit are walking or taxi. For the average seafarer, a 30-40km round-trip taxi ride into the city is a huge expense. Walking is not worth the effort, because there are often no services or amenities in the vicinity of the isolated mooring points that run from the Old Port to Montreal East.

Even for those docked within reach of public transit, it is no small task to have to figure out how and where to navigate on your own, especially if you speak neither English or French or don’t have Canadian currency on hand.

The only safe, reliable and affordable alternative for seafarers is the free shuttle service we offer anywhere in the Port of Montreal.

While on ship at sea, many seafarers do not have access to the internet or cell phone service, and therefore cannot contact their families regularly.

Combined with long contracts of six to nine months, time spent interacting with loved ones is precious.

Without regular ship visits by our chaplains during which they can purchase phone cards, or without the opportunity to use the free Wi-Fi connection in port or at Mariners' House, they would face prolonged isolation on-board ship.

If a ship's crew are experiencing unsafe or unjust conditions on board, these are less likely to be noticed at isolated docking points unless regular ship visits are made. M2S chaplains are sensitive to these types of situations, and are prepared to advocate for seafarers with their permission. For example, we might request help from the appropriate authorities if the maritime labour convention is not being respected.

For any health-related needs, M2S works to provide access to the proper healthcare professionals.