Announcing Mercy Ships' new vessel, Global Mercy

Global Mercy is planned to sail to Africa in late 2021.

Mercy Ships, a faith-based global organization powered by charitable donors and volunteers, has been providing world-class surgical care to those in need for more than 40 years, free of charge. It is the official nonprofit partner for Seatrade Cruise Events. 

'Modern marvel'

'The Global Mercy will be a true modern marvel — a fully custom-built hospital ship with customized instruments, state-of-the-art technology and the highly-trained talent of a modern hospital,' said Rosa Whitaker, president of Mercy Ships. 'It also represents a unique call-to-action for anyone called to serve, and it presents the opportunity for people to use their skill set to positively impact global healthcare.'

Critical lack of access to surgical care

According to the Lancet Global Surgery 2030 Report, an estimated 16.9m people die yearly due to lack of access to surgical care. Over 93% of the population of sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to safe and timely surgery. As COVID-19 threatens the stability of already fragile healthcare systems globally, the need to provide basic life-saving care is greater than ever, especially in low- to middle-income countries.

More than 150,000 lives transformed

Global Mercy will deliver a safe and clean environment to various African nations, providing help and resources from some of the world's best trained physicians. Over the ship's expected 50-year lifespan, it is estimated that more than 150,000 lives will be changed on board through surgery alone.

Latest training tools

In addition to providing surgeries, Global Mercy will be outfitted with state-of-the-art training spaces including a simulation lab with virtual and augmented reality, mannequins and other training tools and simulated post-op care space, all allowing trainers to simulate local conditions and limitations in order to teach best practices in low-resource environments.

The 174-meter/571-foot, 37,000gt ship will have six operating rooms and house over 600 volunteers from around the globe representing many disciplines including surgeons, maritime crew, cooks, teachers, electricians, host country staff and more. The ship will also feature a 682-seat auditorium, student academy, gymnasium, pool, café, shop and library — all designed to accommodate up to 950 crew when docked in port.

Joins Africa Mercy

Global Mercy will join the current flagship Africa Mercy, more than doubling the impact of volunteers and services provided by the charity.

Information, including how to volunteer or donate: www.mercyships.org.