Global shipping major CMA CGM has more than doubled the number of women seafarers in its workforce under its flagship gender-diversity initiative, “She Sails,” underscoring growing momentum toward inclusion in the traditionally male-dominated maritime sector.
The number of women at sea with CMA CGM rose from about 200 in early 2024 to 403 by the end of 2025, marking a growth of over 100% since the programme was launched in December 2024. Building on this progress, the French shipping group has set an ambitious target of deploying 1,000 women seafarers by 2030.
“She Sails” is designed to encourage women to pursue maritime careers, support young talent considering life at sea, and foster a global community where women seafarers can share experiences and inspire future generations.
Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President of Operations and Assets at CMA CGM, said the programme had exceeded expectations in its first year. “More women are moving into key positions faster and with greater confidence, which is strengthening team diversity and overall performance,” she said, adding that the results bring both pride and responsibility to ensure equal opportunities across the organisation.
The initiative has already translated into career progression. During the year, 74 women were promoted, including eight to senior officer roles—the highest levels of responsibility on board. Another 48 women advanced from cadet to junior officer positions, while a company first was recorded with the promotion of a woman from deckhand to qualified deckhand.
CMA CGM has also expanded the programme’s global reach through a network of 42 ambassadors across 19 countries. Partnerships with maritime academies are growing, with three formal agreements signed in Abu Dhabi and India, and further collaborations under preparation in the Philippines and Indonesia to recruit more women cadets.
As “She Sails” marks its first anniversary, CMA CGM said the initiative represents the beginning of a broader effort to reshape the global merchant navy. The company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women at sea, ensuring equitable access to maritime careers, and accelerating gender diversity across the shipping industry.
