NMA Mission Statement

The National Mariners Association (NMA), is a “lower-level”, “limited tonnage” merchant mariner advocacy and watchdog group that engages the political process, primarily at the national level, to improve the safety, health and social stability of our mariners. NMA is not a union, does not organize workers within companies, or engage in collective bargaining.

      NMA is a non-profit maritime organization that welcomes all professional mariners whether military, commercial, or recreational. 

     Founded by a group of dedicated and credentialed limited tonnage mariners, our aim is to provide a central forum for communication and information where every mariner who owns, operates, or serves on a vessel can access maritime-related information and benefit from the shared experiences of fellow seamen through our web page at https://nationalmariners.org,

      NMA addresses issues important to the safety, health and social stability of our mariners including marine safety, recruiting and advancement of qualified mariners, and the protection of the marine environment.

      NMA will engage with all concerned to promote the maritime industry as an attractive career and advocate legislation beneficial to professional mariners, the maritime industry, and the marine environment.

      The American merchant seaman has always been a vital part of our nation’s economy.  Without their sacrifice and the hardships they endured our nation’s prosperity could never have been realized.    

     Today’s merchant mariners still sacrifice health, welfare, and family time in their service to the sea.  Our Association recognizes their dedication and will utilize its resources to support worthwhile programs that will aid our merchant seaman and their families when in need.  As a member, you will be part of this meaningful endeavor while benefiting from joining with America’s professional mariners.