ABSTRACT
The role of social services in the Polish shipping sector was extensive and mirrored that of all sectors of the Polish economy under the communist regime. This chapter examines a wide range of services provided for shipping workers - seafarers and officers - ranging from health care and creches to library facilities, film theatres and the decor of the ships themselves. Interior decoration was designed to create a home-like atmosphere and great attention was given to sanitary and therapeutic facilities. Full laundry facilities existed on all vessels and the crew were provided with all necessary protective clothing and hygienic goods needed for personal use. The furnishings of the home met first-class hotel standards and included a nursery for hotel guests and a sauna for both the residents and their families when visiting. In late September 1976 the First Congress of Polish Maritime Culture sponsored by the Maritime Culture Activists Association was held in Gdynia.
