Membership & Professional Recognition

Are you looking to advance yourself and your career as a full time, part time or volunteer maritime SAR professional whilst connecting with other professionals across the globe and being part of a driving force behind professionalism and best practice in maritime search and rescue? 

At the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, we are dedicated to supporting and advancing individuals and organisations within the maritime search and rescue field. The council is composed of individuals and organisation who share a passion for saving lives in and around the worlds waters, and we offer a range of benefits to help our members succeed.

By joining us, you will have access to:

• Formal recognition of your professional status within maritime search and rescue, including the ability to display post-nominal letters
• Networking opportunities with other professionals in your field across the globe
• Free professional development programs, and up to 50% discounts on our certified maritime search and rescue training programmes and courses
• Recognition and awards for exceptional achievement
• Ability to contribute towards the advancement and professionalism of maritime SAR across the world with our working groups and our focus on maritime SAR research and development 

Whether you're just starting out in your career or looking to take the next step, the Maritime Search and Rescue Council can help you achieve your goals. Our members come from a range of backgrounds and experiences, and we welcome individuals at all stages of their careers, whether you are employed or a volunteer.

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.

The below descriptions for each category are not exhaustive and we welcome applications from the full range of paid, retained or volunteer maritime SAR professionals. The council will work with you to ensure your placement in the most appropriate membership category based on your qualifications and experience.

Associate - AMSAR - £24 per annum or £2 per month

Retired members of the maritime SAR profession

Supporters with an interest in maritime SAR

Associate Member - AMMSAR - £36 per annum or £3 per month

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 or £4 per month

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 or £5 per month

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 or £6 per month

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 or Company Membership

Corporate membership of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council is an initiative that allows organisations within the maritime SAR community and industry to actively contribute to the important mission of the Council. These members, typically maritime SAR organisations, emergency response organisations, shipping companies, maritime service providers, or related entities, collaborate with the Council to reach our collective objectives - professionalism, pride and progress in the maritime SAR sector. By joining the council as corporate members, these organisations demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding human lives, promoting effective search and rescue practices, and fostering a culture of cooperation and preparedness within the maritime search and rescue community. 

If your organisation is interested in organisation or company membership, please email the council at: council@maritimesar.org