You don't need a maritime background to join a humanitarian SAR operation — but you do need to understand the environment you're entering. A vessel at sea is a closed system. Space is limited, roles matter, and the practices that feel unfamiliar on day one exist for good reason.
This module covers what you need to know before you board: how a SAR vessel is broadly structured, the language the crew uses, and the key practices that will help you settle in quickly and contribute effectively from the start.
What you'll cover
How SAR vessels are generally laid out
Essential maritime terminology
Key terms for spaces aboard
Five practices for your first days
Estimated time
5 minutes — followed by a short knowledge check. A completion certificate is awarded at the end of the full Path (after Module 1.6).
Section 1 of 3
How a SAR vessel is laid out
Humanitarian SAR vessels come in many shapes and sizes — converted offshore supply ships, fishing vessels, sailing vessels, and purpose-built platforms. No two are identical. What follows is a general orientation to the kinds of spaces you'll find aboard, not a definitive layout for any specific vessel.
What most SAR vessels share is a broad logic: rescue operations happen at the stern (the rear), the bridge (command centre) is elevated toward the bow (front), crew live in the middle, and technical spaces are below. Your vessel's specific induction will show you the exact layout.
A general layout — your vessel will differ. Learn its specific layout during induction.
Your induction will cover this
All vessels conduct a safety induction before departure. This will include a guided tour of key spaces, muster stations, and emergency equipment. This is the right time to learn your specific vessel's layout — not before. What this module gives you is the language and general framework so the induction makes sense when you arrive.
Section 2 of 3
The language of the ship
Maritime terminology exists for precision and speed. When someone gives an order on deck, there's no room for "sorry, which way do you mean?" Learn these before you board — you'll hear them constantly.
Direction & position
Port
Left side of the vessel when facing forward. Remembered by: port is red — like port wine. Navigation light is red. "Port and left both have four letters" also works.
Starboard
Right side of the vessel when facing forward. Navigation light is green.
Bow
The front of the vessel. "Forward" or "fore" means toward the bow.
Stern
The rear of the vessel. "Aft" means toward the stern. Where rescue operations happen.
Spaces aboard
Bridge
The command and navigation centre, usually elevated at the forward section of the superstructure.
Mess
The communal eating and social area. Also where informal briefings often happen.
Heads
The toilets aboard a vessel. The name comes from the historical position of the toilet at the bow ("head") of a ship.
Scullery
The washing-up area or galley sink space. Found on some vessels adjacent to the mess.
Muster station
Your assigned emergency assembly point. Shown during your vessel induction. Know it before the vessel departs.
Galley
The ship's kitchen. Usually adjacent to the mess.
Operations
RHIB
Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat — the fast rescue craft deployed from the stern for survivor recovery.
Watch
A scheduled period of duty. Vessels operate 24/7 — watches rotate crew through shifts around the clock.
Standing orders
Permanent instructions that apply at all times. The Master issues standing orders for the vessel; managers may also issue standing orders for their team or area of responsibility.
MOB
Man Overboard — an emergency when a person falls into the water. MOB alarms trigger immediate emergency response.
For a full reference of SAR and maritime acronyms, visit the Glossary.
Section 3 of 3
Five things to keep in mind from day one
These aren't rules imposed on you — they're practices that experienced seafarers follow because they make life aboard safer and more effective for everyone. New crew who adopt them quickly earn trust and integrate well. Those who don't create extra work for people who are already busy.
1
One hand for you, one hand for the ship. Always maintain a grip point when moving around the vessel, especially on deck. Seas change without warning — a fall overboard is a SAR incident your crew doesn't need.
2
Be mindful on the bridge. Some vessels require you to request permission before entering the bridge. Even when entry is open, be aware that the Officer of the Watch carries full responsibility for the vessel. Avoid unnecessary noise or distraction, particularly during manoeuvres or radio communications.
3
Know your muster station and emergency signals from your induction. Your vessel induction will cover general alarm, fire alarm, and abandon ship signals. These vary between vessels — pay close attention when they are briefed.
4
Ask before you move or touch anything operational. Equipment on a working vessel has a state — stowed, rigged, charged, live. Moving something without understanding its status can compromise a system or put someone at risk. When in doubt, ask.
5
Rest and eat when you can. Operational tempo on a SAR vessel is unpredictable. A rescue can begin at 0300 after 16 hours of calm. Looking after yourself — sleeping and eating during quiet periods — is part of being an effective crew member.
The Master's authority
At sea, the Master has absolute authority over the vessel and everyone aboard — regardless of NGO role, seniority, or nationality. This is a legal and operational necessity. If you have a disagreement, raise it through your line manager on land. At sea, the Master's decisions are followed.
Knowledge check
Before you move on
Four questions covering the essentials from this module.