COVID-19 Safety Onboard a Mercy Ship
Review our COVID-19 FAQs to Learn More
Any prospective or returning crew looking for further information can visit our FAQ page to learn more.
As Mercy Ships prepares to return our fleet to Africa, we’re also in the process of staffing both of our ships with an international crew. Our lifesaving, life-changing work wouldn’t be possible without incredible volunteers coming from around the world to serve onboard.
Of course, we have had to adapt life onboard our ships to ensure we can return to our work in Africa while protecting the health and safety of everyone onboard. Here are some of the key measures we’re taking to keep our community safe in light of COVID-19.
Community Life Aboard Our Vessel
Community is a major part of life onboard our ships. After a particularly isolating and challenging year for many, we’re thrilled that our ships can be a place of connection and purpose for our international crew once again. We have taken several different steps to foster a vibrant community while still facilitating social distancing.
Some of these changes include:
- Limiting our cabin capacities to a maximum of four people per cabin.
- Eliminating self-service in the dining rooms and instead offering plating and service from the dining room staff.
- Implementing social distancing practices in our dining room and cafe areas.
- Requiring that all persons onboard the ships wear masks in public spaces.
- Encouraging regular and thorough hand-washing and hand sanitization.
There will still be plenty of opportunities to engage with others and relax a safe, socially distanced way. Crew will be able to grab a coffee at the Starbucks Cafe, browse books and movies at the library, and stock up on essential items at the Ship Shop onboard. There are also plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air outdoors, like Deck 7 and the pool and playground areas on Deck 8, as well as the dock.
A Young Leader’s Philanthropic Inspiration
Discover how a young girl inspires others by making a generous donation to Mercy Ships Canada
Creating New Connections: Mercy Ships Canada and the Francophone Nursing Community
Find out how Mercy Ships Canada is getting involved with the French speaking nursing community.
How the Mercy Ships National Crew Took on the COVID-19 Pandemic in Senegal
On a hospital ship when the pandemic hit, a member of Mercy Ships National Crew was inspired to continue humanitarian work in Senegal.
NOTICE OF BOARD VACANCIES MERCY SHIPS CANADA
Mercy Ships Canada is seeking up to three dynamic independent Directors to join our Board over the next 18-months.
Safer Surgery for a New Generation: Pediatric Anesthesia Training in Senegal
In June 2022, more than 30 Senegalese healthcare professionals boarded the Global Mercy® to equip themselves with new skills that could save countless vulnerable young lives.
A Franco-Canadian Onboard the Global Mercy
Now living in France, Léa works for Mercy Ships Canada remotely and “seized the opportunity” when the hospital ship Global Mercy came to Europe.
Related posts
A Young Leader’s Philanthropic Inspiration
Discover how a young girl inspires others by making a generous donation to Mercy Ships Canada
A Promise Fulfilled: The Africa Mercy Returns to Africa
The Africa Mercy® hospital ship returned to West Africa, bringing hope and healing as the vessel docked once again in the port of Dakar, Senegal.
Africa Celebration
The Africa Celebration is a moment to pause and give thanks for 30 years of partnership, filled with stories of hope and healing.
A Franco-Canadian Onboard the Global Mercy
Now living in France, Léa works for Mercy Ships Canada remotely and “seized the opportunity” when the hospital ship Global Mercy came to Europe.
Safer Surgery for a New Generation: Pediatric Anesthesia Training in Senegal
In June 2022, more than 30 Senegalese healthcare professionals boarded the Global Mercy® to equip themselves with new skills that could save countless vulnerable young lives.
NOTICE OF BOARD VACANCIES MERCY SHIPS CANADA
Mercy Ships Canada is seeking up to three dynamic independent Directors to join our Board over the next 18-months.