What we stand for

Support for seafarers and their families

Traditional care – reliable and humane

The core mission of HAUS SEEFAHRT has always been to support captains and their families. Since its establishment in 1545, the foundation has pursued the goal of providing dignified assistance to seafarers who are in need or require help in their old age. This promise remains valid to this day.

The foundation supports former captains, their spouses, and surviving dependents with financial assistance or rent-free accommodation at the Seefahrtshof in Bremen-Grohn. This modern residential complex not only offers security and comfort, but also a sense of community—based on mutual respect and solidarity.

The focus is not only on material assistance, but also on the idea of enabling people to live with dignity in their old age – integrated into a community based on trust and reliability.

Reliability counts at sea – and it’s no different on land. The HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation offers exactly that: a network of experience, community and mutual support. After years at sea, I now work on land and find it greatly enriching to continue to be part of this traditional community – not only because of its history, but above all because of its living future.

Nadja Köppen

Capitain

Education and public welfare

Responsibility for the future – support that makes a difference

HAUS SEEFAHRT not only takes responsibility for the past, but also for future generations. In an increasingly complex world, the foundation supports young people who have chosen or are considering a career in the nautical sector.

Students at the nautical faculties benefit from the foundation’s excellent network and supportive environment. Among other things, they also have the opportunity to live at the Seefahrtshof at a reduced rate. All residents of the Seefahrtshof benefit greatly from the resulting “multi-generational character.” In addition to providing individual support, the foundation is increasingly involved in areas of social interaction.

It specifically promotes initiatives that serve the common good – for example, by taking in refugees or supporting social projects in other ways. In this way, HAUS SEEFAHRT demonstrates that community spirit is not just a historical value, but something that is lived and breathed in the present.

Social Credit Points for Students

Commitment that counts – learning through practical experience, taking responsibility

As part of their studies, prospective captains must also earn social credit points. HAUS SEEFAHRT offers students the opportunity to get actively involved – and at the same time do something for their academic career. Anyone from the field of seafaring or maritime studies can get involved in the foundation, support projects, or participate in the day-to-day activities of the Seefahrtshof.

This commitment is not only appreciated in principle, but also formally recognized: through cooperation with universities, the work performed can be credited as “social credit points” in the course of study. This creates practical learning spaces – and an awareness of how social commitment and professional orientation go hand in hand.

It’s a win-win situation: students gain insight, experience, and responsibility, while the foundation benefits from new perspectives, ideas, and a breath of fresh air.

Would you like to earn your social credit points at the HAUS SEEFAHRT foundation? We look forward to hearing from you: