The Maritime Search and Rescue Endorsement Scheme (MSARES) is an internationally recognised professional endorsement for maritime search and rescue personnel, delivered by the Maritime Search and Rescue Council in partnership with The Nautical Institute.
MSARES recognises the specialist skills, knowledge and competence that effective maritime SAR operations demand. It gives new and experienced SAR personnel a structured route to professional recognition beyond the general maritime qualifications gained through normal career progression.
Crew and commanders serving on dedicated search and rescue vessels need operational competencies that standard maritime training and STCW certification do not cover. MSARES sets the standard for those competencies. Candidates prove they meet it through practical experience, structured learning, workplace assessment and independent evaluation, and are then awarded a Maritime Search and Rescue Endorsement.
In collaboration with
Two endorsement pathways
Crew Endorsement
Recognises the competence of operational crew members serving on maritime SAR vessels.
Command Endorsement
Recognises the advanced knowledge, leadership and command capability required of those who lead maritime SAR operations.
Two routes to endorsement
New entrants
Follow a structured development pathway: approved training, workplace experience, and completion of a Training Record Book.
Experienced personnel
Follow a recognition pathway that credits existing knowledge and operational experience, supported by competency assessment and evidence of practice.
How candidates are assessed
Both routes are assessed through:
- A practical task record book
- Online knowledge examinations
- For Command Endorsement candidates, a professional oral examination, which confirms the leadership, decision-making and operational judgement needed to command a maritime SAR operation
MSARES gives individuals a clear, internationally recognised development pathway across a maritime SAR career, and gives organisations a way to build competent, confident and professionally recognised SAR personnel.
Frequently asked questions
What is a maritime SAR endorsement?
A maritime SAR endorsement is formal, internationally recognised confirmation that a seafarer meets a professional standard of competence in search and rescue. MSARES, developed by MSARC and The Nautical Institute, awards Crew and Command Endorsements to personnel serving on dedicated SAR vessels.
What is the difference between a Crew Endorsement and a Command Endorsement?
A Crew Endorsement recognises the competence of operational crew members on maritime SAR vessels. A Command Endorsement recognises the advanced knowledge, leadership and command capability needed to lead SAR operations, and additionally requires a professional oral examination.
Who is MSARES for?
MSARES is for crew and commanders serving on dedicated search and rescue vessels, whether paid, retained or volunteer. There are separate routes for new entrants and for experienced personnel.