The roots of the HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation date back to 1545. As a city that remains an important center of trade and seafaring to this day, and motivated by a desire to provide support to sailors in need and their families, Bremen’s shipowners founded the “Arme Seefahrt” (Poor Seafarers) charity. Its goal was to help people who risked their lives at sea and often had no social security to help them help themselves.
Over the centuries, the foundation survived wars, political upheavals, and economic crises – yet always remained true to itself. The basic idea of solidarity continues to shape HAUS SEEFAHRT to this day. The foundation has developed from a historical welfare organization into a modern charitable institution based on respect, reliability, and community spirit.
The HAUS SEEFAHRT Foundation is a traditional institution with a clear social mission. Since its establishment in 1545, it has been supporting members in need, their spouses, widows, and orphans—whether through financial assistance, affordable housing, or by strengthening a reliable community. This care remains the foundation of its activities to this day.
But HAUS SEEFAHRT has long since moved on: the foundation has evolved over time and responds to current social challenges. Today, for example, it also supports young people on their way to obtaining a nautical license (certificate of competency). Students can receive scholarships or discounted housing. The acquisition of social credit points is supported.
Social responsibility in a broader sense is also taken seriously: In recent years, the foundation has taken in refugee seafarers and their families, provided housing, and actively helped with integration – in line with its fundamental social principles.
In addition, HAUS SEEFAHRT fosters dialogue between business, society, and seafaring through events such as the Schaffermahlzeit dinner – and contributes to Bremen preserving and developing its maritime identity.
HAUS SEEFAHRT has been operating the Seefahrtshof in the Grohn district of Bremen since 1952. The modern residential complex consists of eight buildings with a total of 36 two- and three-room apartments. It serves as a retreat and home for members, their spouses, and surviving dependents.
The right to reside there is based on need. Residents with low incomes pay no rent, while others pay market rates. The Seefahrtshof is more than just a place to live—it is an expression of community and care in a dignified setting.
The foundation is managed by a two-person leadership team: the managing director and the managing captain. Together, they represent the interests of the foundation, manage its business, and maintain close contact with its members.
The duo is supported by a voluntary committee of maritime and commercial members who share responsibility and make strategic decisions. This combination of maritime experience and economic expertise shapes the foundation’s solid and sustainable work.
Seafaring members are active or retired captains who have unrestricted nautical qualifications and have worked for at least two years as a captain or nautical officer on a seagoing vessel. Through their membership, they strengthen the foundation’s community, take on responsibility, and uphold the maritime values on which HAUS SEEFAHRT is based.
In old age or in times of need, seafaring members can benefit from the foundation’s social services – for example, through a right of residence in the Seefahrtshof or financial support.
Commercial members are prominent figures from Bremen’s business community who are elected to HAUS SEEFAHRT. Their role is both honorable and demanding: they contribute to the fulfillment of the foundation’s objectives through their commitment, support the administration, and participate in the organization of the Schaffermahlzeit – the most important social event in the foundation’s calendar.
Membership is a sign of special trust, social commitment, and the close connection between trade and seafaring in Bremen.
The General Assembly marks the beginning of the Foundation’s year each February, offering a moment to reflect on the past and look ahead to the future. Both business and seafaring members come together to receive updates on reports, financial statements, and ongoing projects.
During the assembly, the members also vote to elect the three new Schaffer, who will later host the upcoming Schaffermahlzeit.
The event concludes with the traditional address by the Managing Chairperson – a speech that reflects on current developments, highlights the Foundation’s social engagement, and reaffirms the strength of its community.
