Crew & colleagues

Around one in seven people are neurodivergent, so you almost certainly sail with someone who is. Learn what that means and how small changes make a big difference on board.

Crew working on the deck of a cargo ship at sea
A navigator in silhouette using binoculars on a ship's bridge

Different, not less.

Neurodiversity is the natural variation in how people think, learn and process the world. Neurodivergent crewmates may communicate, focus or handle sensory input differently, and often bring real strengths.

What is neurodiversity?

What you might notice, and how to help

Everyone is different. These are common patterns, not a checklist.

Autism

A lifelong difference in how people communicate, process sensory information and experience the world.

About autism

You might notice

  • Prefers clear, literal instructions
  • Finds sudden changes to plans stressful
  • Sensitive to noise, light or touch
  • Deep focus and attention to detail

How you can help

  • Say exactly what you mean
  • Give notice of changes where possible
  • Agree a quiet space or ear defenders
  • Put key information in writing

ADHD

Differences in attention, activity and impulse control. Often a strength in fast-moving, high-pressure situations.

About adhd

You might notice

  • Hyperfocus on interesting tasks
  • Struggles with repetitive or long, quiet watches
  • Loses track of time or small items
  • Calm and quick in a crisis

How you can help

  • Break tasks into short, clear steps
  • Use checklists and timers
  • Vary duties where you can
  • Give feedback little and often

Specific learning differences

Dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia: differences in reading, coordination, numbers or writing.

About specific learning differences

You might notice

  • Takes longer with dense written procedures
  • Mixes up numbers or sequences
  • Strong practical and spatial skills
  • Prefers to be shown, not told

How you can help

  • Demonstrate tasks hands-on
  • Use clear layouts and plain language
  • Allow extra time for paperwork
  • Offer text-to-speech or coloured overlays

Tourette syndrome

Involuntary movements or sounds called tics, which can come and go and are often made worse by stress.

About tourette syndrome

You might notice

  • Tics that change over time
  • Tics increase when tired or anxious
  • May try hard to suppress tics, which is exhausting

How you can help

  • Ignore tics; don't comment or copy
  • Reduce pressure and stress where you can
  • Ask privately what would help

Neurodiversity means embracing the full spectrum of talent at work.

James Stockbridge, co-founder and trustee

On board: do and don't

Do

  • Give clear, specific instructions and confirm understanding
  • Back up handovers with a short written note
  • Warn about changes to watches or routines early
  • Ask the person what works for them
  • Keep anything they share with you confidential

Don't

  • Rely on hints, sarcasm or "you know what I mean"
  • Tell someone they "don't look autistic" or "everyone's a bit ADHD"
  • Comment on or copy tics, stims or habits
  • Share someone's diagnosis without their permission
  • Assume what someone can or can't do

Guides for crewmates

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