Employees of the sea and river fleet celebrate their professional holiday on the first Sunday of July. It was established by the order of the President of Ukraine dated June 12, 2015. The main goal of the introduction of the professional day was the revival and development of the national historical traditions of the maritime community. Traditionally, on this day, the leaders of the state congratulate sailors on their professional holiday, celebrate with awards and diplomas. Sailors who have proven themselves in military service are given military ranks and thanks from the command.

As of 2015, 38 state-owned enterprises, 5,000 industry entities were operating in the water transport sector in Ukraine, and about 100,000 Ukrainians chose the profession of a sailor. There are 18 continental seaports, 13 river ports and 4 fishing ports in Ukraine, which employ about 25,000 employees. The main river highway of Ukraine is the Dnipro River. Sea and river ports provide services to 24,500 vessels.