20,000 seafarers stranded as ships wait outside Strait of Hormuz amid shipping crisis

Thousands of seafarers remain stranded aboard commercial vessels as the ongoing security crisis in the Strait of Hormuz disrupts one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

Shipping companies have slowed or suspended transits through the strait due to heightened military tensions in the region, forcing vessels to remain at anchor in nearby waters.

Ships and crew currently affected

Maritime industry reports indicate a large number of vessels and crew members are impacted:

• Around 20,000 seafarers are currently stranded aboard ships in the Persian Gulf region.

• Approximately 200 oil tankers and commercial vessels have been forced to remain at anchor.

• Nearly 3,000 vessels across the wider Gulf shipping network have been affected by disrupted navigation.

The crisis is particularly significant for India’s maritime workforce. Reports indicate that over 23,000 Indian seafarers are operating or waiting on vessels across the entire Gulf region during the disruption.

Waiting time for vessels

Many vessels have been waiting several days outside the strait as operators assess security risks.

Some ships have remained at anchor for four to six days, while others are delaying voyages entirely until the situation stabilizes. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped sharply as shipping companies avoid the route.

Typical waiting zones include:

• Gulf of Oman anchorage areas

• Offshore waters near the UAE

• Persian Gulf holding positions

Security risks faced by crews

Seafarers in the region face multiple operational and safety concerns.

Missile and drone threats
Several vessels in the region have reportedly faced projectile or drone attacks during the escalation.

Navigation uncertainty
Shipping companies are waiting for security guarantees or naval protection before allowing vessels to pass through the strait.

Extended crew deployment
Delayed voyages mean many crews remain on board longer than scheduled contract periods.