Protecting Crew Lives: Advocacy, Awareness & Action for a Safer Industry

PCL traces its origins to the legacy of 20-year-old Paige Bell, a young crew member whose life was tragically cut short while working onboard a superyacht in the Bahamas. In the aftermath, two mothers from the Durham yachting community — Cherie Johnson and Nikki Coulyer — transformed grief into purpose, determined that Paige's life would catalyse positive change rather than fade into silence. Initially a space for remembrance and reflection, the initiative quickly gained momentum as crew members worldwide shared their own experiences and called for better protections at sea.

Today, PCL serves as a resource-rich platform that raises awareness about crew rights, reporting pathways, and welfare challenges, while signposting existing support services and aligned organisations. Although PCL does not provide legal, medical or investigative services, its role in advocating for transparency and crew empowerment has resonated across the maritime sector.

Beyond storytelling, PCL encourages responsible participation from individuals and industry stakeholders alike, emphasising that safety starts with understanding rights, responsibilities, and respectful conduct onboard. Through collaboration with partners and ongoing outreach, Protecting Crew Lives stands as a constructive voice in the industry — reminding us that crew are not interchangeable labour, but people deserving dignity, safety, and accountability.

As PCCP and PCL continue to align in mission, we look forward to supporting meaningful improvements that uphold crew welfare and contribute to a safer, more transparent maritime community.