The Swedish Mercantile Marine Foundation supports the Maritime Preparedness Exercise on 1 September as part of DSM2025

Interview with Karl Karell, Executive Director, Master Mariner, Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus - The Swedish Mercantile Marine Foundation

Stiftelsen Sveriges Sjömanshus - The Swedish Mercantile Marine Foundation supports DSM2025, what contributed to make this decision?
The Swedish Mercantile Marine Foundation supports the Maritime Preparedness Exercise on 1 September as part of DSM2025. This gives us an opportunity to participate as an exhibitor during the fair to inform about our purpose, to benefit seafarers, which we hope also contributes with an important complement to the fair's technical and commercial focus.

What makes DSM different from other exhibitions in your opinion?
DSM is right in front of the eyes of the real shipping industry – located where ships, seafarers, and shipowners actually are. It is not a theoretical gathering; it´s rooted in the everyday reality of maritime life.

What are your expectations for DSM2025?
Meeting new people is key for us. As a grant-making foundation supporting seafarers, we are required to distribute 80% of our returns —often through research and development initiatives. At DSM2025, we look forward to connecting with those who can benefit from and contribute to our mission.

What is your best memory from DSM2023?
What really stuck with me was how impressively professional and smooth everything was. It felt like a really friendly family gathering – just one that runs like clockwork with world-class logistics!

What do you find are the opportunities and challenges in the Shipping Industry today?
One of the biggest challenges is also the greatest opportunity: attracting new people to work at sea – and making sure they want to stay. Supporting and valuing the next generation of seafarers is crucial.

How would you describe DSM in one sentence?
A logistical masterpiece with a human heart – where the maritime world comes together, efficiently and authentically.

And finally, do you prefer a sail or a motor boat for recreation, and why so?
Ah, the eternal question! With a sailboat, you never know when you get there… and with a motorboat, you never quite sure if you get there. Personally, I enjoy both – one teaches patience, the other tests your faith in machinery!