The sea within: embodied sensemaking among seafaring leaders

This thesis explores the way that seafaring leaders (masters and chief engineers) make sense of critical events at sea. It examines the way in which their sensemaking is an embodied process (where mind/body and environment are highly enmeshed) rather than a purely rational, conscious thought process. The research employs narrative interpretation; concluding that there are bottom-up, neurobiological and sociological dynamics that sit outside conscious awareness yet shape the way seafaring leaders make sense of critical events and their roles. The thesis provides practical recommendations to improve safety at sea, and professional practice development among seafarers.