Considering the growing global demand for seafarers and a greater need for women to contribute towards national output, this paper emphasises the need for a increased participation of women in seafaring jobs. Though international and national organisations are encouraging young women to take up a career in the maritime sector, unless a gender sensitive approach is employed to look into the emotional and physical challenges faced by women seafarers, these attempts will not result in desired outcomes. Higher participation of women can be expected only if a gender sensitive working atmosphere is created on board and an appropriate family support system is ensured on the shore.