Membership of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council (MSARC) is professional recognition for maritime search and rescue practitioners. It connects you to an international community advancing maritime SAR standards, competence and good practice, and it is open to individuals and organisations committed to protecting life at sea, whether they serve in paid, retained or voluntary roles.
As a member, you join a global network of SAR practitioners, organisations and industry leaders working to strengthen capability, share knowledge and improve operational outcomes. Membership gives formal recognition of your experience and commitment, and it supports your continued professional development.
Whether you are beginning your career in maritime SAR, leading an established organisation or shaping national policy, MSARC membership is a visible mark of your professional standing.
Member benefits
- Post-nominal letters and formal recognition of your professional status
- Membership of an international network of maritime SAR professionals and organisations
- Free continuing professional development (CPD) activities, webinars and knowledge-sharing events
- Discounts on MSARC and MSARES training programmes and specialist courses
- Opportunities to contribute to research, working groups and the development of professional standards
- Access to awards, recognition programmes and leadership opportunities
- Regular updates on emerging good practice, industry developments and international initiatives
- A hand in shaping the future of maritime search and rescue
Operational responder, trainer, manager, policymaker or volunteer: membership supports your career, and it contributes to safer, more effective maritime search and rescue worldwide.
Membership grades
Joining us is easy – fill out the membership application below and select the most appropriate grade for your experience. We will be in touch to confirm your appointment to the Maritime Search and Rescue Council at the most appropriate grade once your application has been reviewed by the council. The council review applications at the end of every calendar month.
Associate
AMSAR
£24 per annum
- Retired members of the maritime SAR profession
- Supporters with an interest in maritime SAR
Associate Member
AMMSAR
£36 per annum
- Maritime SAR professionals currently undergoing initial training
- Maritime SAR professionals with less than 2 years service in an operational role
Member
MMSAR
£48 per annum
- Current and substantive maritime SAR professionals at the operational and tactical level
- Maritime SAR professionals holding management level qualifications and/or experience
- Maritime SAR professionals responsible for leading an operational or tactical level team or asset
Associate Fellow
AFMSAR
£60 per annum
- Maritime SAR professionals with strategic level responsibilities
- Maritime SAR professionals responsible for managing a number of maritime SAR teams or assets
Fellow
FMSAR
£72 per annum
- Maritime SAR professionals who have significantly contributed to maritime SAR or the Maritime Search and Rescue Council – appointed through a vote by the Maritime Search and Rescue Council
Organisation Membership
Organisation Membership is open to SAR organisations, maritime agencies, commercial companies, charities, training providers and any organisation that shares our commitment to advancing maritime search and rescue.
It is more than an affiliation. Organisation Membership is a public statement that your organisation stands for safeguarding life, improving rescue practice and upholding professionalism, pride and progress across the maritime SAR sector.
Organisation Members join an international network built on collaboration, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, with access to specialist support and to opportunities that strengthen organisational capability.
Organisation Membership can also open access to:
- Approved Training Centre (ATC) status
- Partnership opportunities with MECCOE
- Strategic mentoring and organisational development
- Bespoke training and professional development programmes
- Consultancy and capability-building support
From a local volunteer rescue team to a national maritime agency, Organisation Membership is a visible commitment to the highest standards of maritime search and rescue.
Frequently asked questions
What are the post-nominal letters for MSARC membership?
MSARC members may use post-nominal letters according to their grade: AMSAR (Associate), AMMSAR (Associate Member), MMSAR (Member), AFMSAR (Associate Fellow) and FMSAR (Fellow). Grades are awarded on the basis of qualifications and operational experience in maritime search and rescue.
How much does MSARC membership cost?
Individual membership starts at £24 per year for Associate grade and rises to £72 per year for Fellow.
How do I apply?
Complete the membership application form and select the grade that best fits your experience. The Council reviews applications at the end of each calendar month and will confirm your appointment to the most appropriate grade.