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Summary: Despite their key role in the distribution of essential goods, seafarers were often overlooked in international COVID-19 responses. Border closures isolated them at sea, often for months beyond contract. Distributing vaccines to seafarers was inconsistent and often depended on the creativity of charities and industry and labour stakeholders. Even seafarers who received vaccinations often had them unrecognised in the ports they visited. These oversights should not be repeated in preparation for future pandemics. As a vulnerable population and as key international workers, seafarers’ health should be prioritised by national and international health policy.