Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Diploma · 800 h · 8 modules
Diploma in Maritime Search and Rescue
This program will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to respond effectively to emergencies at sea. You will learn everything from planning and coordinating SAR operations to using specialized equipment and…
Duration800 h
FormatOnline
Starts30 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
Your profile
Tick what you already know to see your result.
Programme overview
What is the Diploma in Maritime Search and Rescue?
The Diploma in Maritime Search and Rescue
This program will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to respond effectively to emergencies at sea. You will learn everything from planning and coordinating SAR operations to using specialized equipment and advanced rescue techniques. This intensive program will prepare you to lead and participate in rescue missions, ensuring the safety and well-being of people in critical situations.
Maritime Search and Rescue
Differential Advantages
- Realistic Simulations: Participate in practical exercises that replicate real-life emergency scenarios.
- Subject Matter Experts: Learn from instructors with extensive experience in maritime SAR operations.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Master international search and rescue regulations and protocols.
- Teamwork: Develop essential communication and coordination skills for mission success.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that will boost your maritime career.
Programme type
Diploma
Study mode
Online
Duration
800 hours
Modules
8
Start date
27-11-2026
Programme highlights
- Advanced Strategies: Master the most effective and up-to-date maritime search and rescue techniques.
- Planning and Coordination: Learn to lead complex rescue operations, optimizing resources and minimizing risks.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Become familiar with the use of state-of-the-art equipment and tools for search and rescue.
- Practical Simulations: Participate in realistic simulations to apply your knowledge and develop crucial skills under pressure.
- Professional Certification: Earn a recognized diploma that will boost your career in the maritime and security sector.
- Prepare to respond effectively to critical situations and save lives at sea.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 8 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
International Legal Framework, SAR 79 Convention and IAMSAR Manual Structure
- International Regulatory Framework for Maritime Rescue: International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR Convention 1979), SOLAS Convention (Chapter V - Safety in Navigation) and United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Convemar)
- Structure and organisation of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (Iamsar Manual): Functions of Volumes I (Organisation and Management), II (Mission Coordination) and III (Mobile Media)
- Complementary agreements in the safeguarding of human life at sea: Salvage Agreement 1989, STCW Convention (Section A-VI) and Bilateral Search and Rescue Regions (SRR)
- SAR Organisation Functional Structure: SAR Coordinator Responsibilities (SC), Rescue Centre Coordinator (CSR), SAR Mission Coordinator (SMC) and Site Coordinator (OSC)
- Rescue Coordinating Centres (RCC / MRCC / JRCC): Infrastructure, Equipment, Radioelectronics, Operational Guards and Relationship with the Rescue Subcentres (RSC) and Alert (SP) Posts
- Legal and moral obligation of the captain before a distress signal: Rule 33 of SOLAS Chapter V, Eximents of responsibility, deviation of course and entry into territorial waters of other States
- Insurance Policies, Classification Societies and Protection and Compensation Clubs (P&I): Economic implications in rescue, assistance, towing and salvage operations
- Responsibilities of coastal states in SAR
02
SAR Emergency Phases, Alert Management and Global Relief System (SMSSM/GMDSS)
- Declaration and management of the three emergency phases SAR: uncertainty phase (INCERFA), alert phase (alerfa) and danger phase (DERESFA); Activation and de-escalation criteria
- Integration of the Global Maritime Distress and Security System (GMDSS / SMSSM): Alert processing in maritime zones A1, A2, A3 and A4 through digital selective calling (LSD / DSC) and EpirB radio beacons
- Cospas-Sarsat Satellite Network (406 MHz): Terrestrial, space and user segments; Hex-ID interpretation, Meosar/LeoSar alerts, and GPS/Galileo location data processing
- Rapid Response Location Technologies: Radar Transponders (SART 9 GHz), AIS-SART Transmitters and Personal Location Beacon (PLB)
- Processing of notices to navigators and nautical warnings: dissemination of maritime safety information (MSI) through NAVTEX, SafetyNet (INMARSAT) and radiophony in HF/VHF
- False Distress Alarm Management: Verification Protocols, Mandatory Cancellation of Unintended Alerts and Minimization of Impact on the SAR Operating Network
- Registration and catalogueing of initial data of the incident: reception of the standard SAR alert format, verification of passengers on board (POB), ship autonomy and initial weather conditions
- Distress communications in MF/HF and NAVTEX waves
03
Drift calculation, search area planning and drift modelling (Datum)
- Marine Drift Physics: Interaction of the marine current ($TWC$), local nautical wind ($LWW$) and effect of the wind on the floating object (Lee Way)
- Determination of the estimated final position (datum): Calculation of the probable position of the object as a function of elapsed time, initial position errors and calculation of drift vectors
- Calculation of the drift for different objects at sea: Destroying coefficients (Lee Way Divergence) for life rafts with/without layer anchor, people in the water (PIW), small boats and containers
- Scatter analysis and search error radius ($R$): Determination of the search area ($A$), calculation of desired coverage and position error margin ($E$)
- Computer tools and SAR simulation software: Use of computer systems to support decision (SAROPS, COSPAS-SARSAT DRIFT, MAPSAR) and analysis of oceanographic prediction models (Mercator/NOAA)
- Effects of tides, coastal and embouchures: hydrodynamic corrections in searches in areas of cove, estuaries, deltas and cliffs
- Datum time evolution: Dynamic update of the search area due to wind changes, tide variations and reduced visibility at night
- Safety and expansion factors of the search area
04
Design and execution of maritime and aeromarine search patterns
- Selection of the optimal search skipper: criteria based on the number of available media, accuracy of the starting position, lens size and type of sensor used
- Search patterns for a single medium: Search by square expansion (SS), search by sector (VS) and search along drift (DS)
- Search patterns by sweep of stripes (straight track): Parallel scan search (PS), transversal search (ts) and online search (track)
- Coordinated searches between ship and aircraft: Skipper combined ship-aircraft (coordinated vessel-aircraft search - CVA), allocation of safety altitudes and side separation
- Determination of the search band width ($W$) and coverage ($C$): correction of visibility, height of the eye/sensor, state of the sea and sun glare
- Tactical Navigation During the Search: Fixed GPS tracking, GPS, dejection compensation in the ship's manoeuvre and calculation of turnpoints (waypoints)
- Evaluation of the detection probability ($POD$): cumulative calculation of the efficiency of the sweep, reassessment of non-deck areas and redistribution of assignments at the end of the day
- Search with radar and electronic media
05
Coordination at the scene of the accident (OSC), helicopter missions and air rescue
- Appointment and functions of the Coordinator at the Site of the Claim (OSC): Responsibilities on board the assigned ship, control of communications traffic and periodic situation report (SITREP) to SMC
- Tactical communications at the rescue scene: assignment of VHF work frequencies (channels 16, 06, 67, 73), sea-air frequencies (121.5 MHz / 123.1 MHz) and radio discipline
- Rescue operations with SAR helicopters (Heli-Hoist Operations): Preparation of the lifting area in the deck of the ship (Winching area), Obstacle clearance, night lighting and control of static electricity discharges
- Aerial lifting techniques and devices: use of the rescue harness (strop), rescue basket (basket), evacuation stretcher and rescue net; Double Hoisting Protocols with Rescue Swimmer
- Fixed and rotary aircraft operational safety guidelines: Relative wind direction in deck, helicopter approach vectors and visual signalling with lights/flares
- Integration of Rescue Swimmers: Deployment from aircraft or boats, approach to shipwrecks in panic, management of injuries and immobilization at sea
- Use of high-capacity maritime rescue and support ships: approach to the endangered ship, shelter to leeward, deployment of rapid rescue boats (FRB) and evacuation scales
- Coordination of multiple surface units
06
Rescue techniques, emergency trailer and assistance to endangered boats
- Evaluation of the stability and condition of the boat: assessment of waterways, fires on board, critical scoring, buoyancy reserve and imminent sinking risk
- Emergency Towing Arrangements - Emergency Towing Operations - ETA: Trailer Physics, Tow Line, Messenger Use, Chain/Cape Shock Absorbers, and Prevention of Surge Surges
- Approach and interconnection of tow lines in bad weather: Positioning manoeuvres to windward/leeward, launching guide ropes through cannons Pneumatic or rocket launcher
- Control of waterways and Bilge high capacity pumping: use of portable explosion/electric submersible pumps, hydraulic ejectors and gap sealing in the hull by wedging and plugging
- Rescue and intervention in extreme conditions: manoeuvres in breakers, cliff areas, river bars, shallow waters and navigation with no visibility
- Rescue operations at sea in the presence of harmful substances or fires: rescue in tankers with explosive atmospheres, use of intrinsically safe equipment and decontamination of survivors
- Assistance and rescue on passenger and cruise ships: massive evacuation at sea (Mass Rescue Operations - MRO), initial triage in deck, safe landing to support ships and survivor counting
- Rescue with fast boats and recovery nets
07
Treatment of survivors, hypothermia, deceased management and psychological care
- First aid and advanced medical intervention in SAR: Massive triage according to START/JUMP-START method Adapted to the aquatic environment and life support in rescue boats
- Pathophysiology and treatment of severe hypothermia: body cooling curves, prevention of post-rescue collapse (rescue collapse), hoisting manoeuvres in horizontal position and passive reheating/active
- Management of the drowning patient and aspiration of water: cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the rescue boat, treatment of acute edema of the secondary lung and administration of high-flow oxygen therapy
- Health care for survivors with trauma and burns: immobilization on Neil Robertson or basket-type stretchers, prevention of hypovolemic shock and control of blood-based haemorrhages
- Procedures for identification, handling and preservation of corpses at sea: custody of belongings, documentation of location of the discovery, packaging in cadaverous bags and chain of legal custody
- Psychological Impact and Emotional First Aid: Treatment of the Post-Built Panic Crisis, Attention to Children and Families, and Management of Cultural or Linguistic Clash in the Rescue of Migrants
- Prevention of post-traumatic stress (SJT / CISM) in rescue teams: psychological debriefing after the mission, crew rotation and emotional support for SAR personnel
- Registration and Delivery of Survivors to Ground
08
Capstone Project: Planning, Coordination and Operational Simulation of a Great Claim SAR
- Definition of the Great Claim Scenario at Sea: Assignment of a Complex Emergency (eg collision of a passenger ship with a merchant ship, or a fishing ship wreck in the high seas)
- Receiving the alert and management of the Coordinating Centre (MRCC): Initial evaluation of relief data, declaration of the emergency phases (INCERFA, ALERFA, DETRESFA) and broadcasting of radio warnings
- Calculation of the drift and delimitation of the search area: determination of the manual and digitized datum, integration of wind and current vectors, and establishment of the search radius ($R$)
- Design of the media search and assignment plan: Drafting of the SAR Operation Order, Selection of Search Patterns (SS, VS, PS), CSO designation and Aeromarine Coordination
- Execution of the rescue and mass evacuation manoeuvre: design of the helicopter evacuation protocol (Heli-Hoist), deployment of rescue boats, towing manoeuvres and treatment of injuries
- Completion of the SAR missions and official report: Drafting of the Final Situation Report (FINAL SITREP), Analysis of the effectiveness of the sweep area, lessons learned and deactivation of media
- Post-Operation Assessment and Lessons Learned
- Presentation and technical defence of the project before the Court: Comprehensive presentation of the search and rescue operation before an expert jury made up of captains of the Merchant Navy, Officers of the SAR Coordinating Centre and IAMSAR instructors
Workload
Study Time and Workload
800 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Professionals from the Merchant Marine, Coast Guard, and Maritime Rescue seeking to specialize in SAR operations, search planning, and emergency management.SAR coordinators, control center operators, and emergency response personnel who need to deepen their knowledge of standardized procedures, communications, and rescue techniques.Volunteers from rescue organizations and lifeguards who wish t
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Effectively coordinate maritime search and rescue operations
- 02Apply advanced sea survival techniques
- 03Use maritime communication equipment effectively
- 04Managing human and material resources in maritime emergency situations
- 05Assessing and mitigating risks in maritime rescue operations
- 06Providing emergency medical care to victims of maritime accidents
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Member of Maritime Rescue Teams: Participation in search and rescue operations, operation of rescue vessels, first aid at sea.
02Rescue Operations Coordinator: Planning and management of resources in maritime emergency situations, liaison with authorities and support teams.
03Maritime Safety Specialist: Risk assessment, implementation of safety protocols, training in sea survival.
04Maritime Salvage Technician: Operation of salvage equipment, refloating of vessels, damage repair.
05Maritime Search and Rescue Instructor: Training of personnel in rescue techniques, use of equipment, and safety procedures.
06Maritime Control Center Operator: Monitoring of maritime traffic, coordination of rescue operations, communication with vessels in distress.
07Consultant In maritime safety: advising companies and organizations on maritime safety, developing emergency plans.
08Volunteer in maritime rescue organizations: participating in rescue operations, supporting the community in emergency situations.
09```
Questions
Entry Requirements
Shipwrecks, missing persons at sea, vessels adrift, navigation accidents, medical emergencies on board and evacuations from oil platforms.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
In both cases, inland waters and the open sea.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Degree in areas related to emergencies, security, law enforcement, healthcare, or demonstrable experience in maritime operations; or personnel of recreational or professional vessels.Physical and swimming competence:Proof of good physical health and swimming ability (physical fitness test may be required).Documentation:Updated CV, medical certificate, maritime qualification or experience (if applicable), ID/Passport, accident insurance (optional, but recommended).Additional requirements:Availability to participate in practical exercises in m
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Leave your details and admissions will write back. If you already know this is the one, go straight to the application and pay in the same session.