Proficiency in Survival Craft Limited

When most mariners hear “Proficiency in Survival Craft” (PSC), they assume it is the gold standard. After all, it’s often referred to as the “full” course. But according to U.S. Coast Guard NVIC 01-24, there’s another path—one that is equally valuable, more practical for many mariners, and often overlooked: the Proficiency in Survival Craft Limited (PSCL) course.

PSCL vs. PSC: More Than a “Lite” Version

A common misconception is that PSC covers more than PSCL. In truth, the difference is not about more or less—it’s about focus.

• PSC emphasizes enclosed lifeboats, which not every vessel carries.

• PSCL places greater emphasis on rescue boats, while still covering essential lifeboat knowledge.

For vessels that rely on rescue boats for survival craft operations, the PSCL course is not just practical—it’s essential. In fact, it may offer a more diverse and directly applicable skill set for many mariners.

Designed for Real-World Roles

Most maritime jobs—whether inland, near coastal, Great Lakes, or ocean—do not require full PSC certification. PSCL is tailored to meet the actual requirements of your job role without unnecessary extras.

• Perfect for mariners working on fishing vessels, workboats, and other ships equipped with rescue boats.

• Meets the Coast Guard’s legal requirements for all levels of Able Seaman endorsements (AB Special, AB Limited, AB Unlimited).

• Satisfies Lifeboatman and PSC Limited requirements across vessel types and tonnage.

A Strong Focus on Leadership

What makes this course stand out is how it connects directly to NVIC 01-24, which repeatedly stresses the requirement to “take command.” That’s more than a technical checklist—it’s about leadership in crisis.

In PSCL, you’ll practice:

• Mustering and accounting for survivors.

• Preparing and launching a rescue boat.

• Operating the rescue boat underway and during recovery.

• Starting and managing engines under pressure.

• Using EPIRBs, SARTs, and pyrotechnic distress signals.

These are not abstract exercises—they are leadership tasks that prepare you to manage people and resources in a real-world ship abandonment scenario.

Time, Cost, and Career Practicality

For many mariners, the decision comes down to time and money.

• Duration: 2.5 days

• Tuition: $575

• Upgrade path: If your career later requires full PSC, Seafarers Worldwide offers a simple two-day upgrade course.

This makes PSCL a smart investment in both compliance and career advancement without overcommitting time or money.

Why Choose SFWW for PSCL?

At Seafarers Worldwide Career Training, we don’t just teach you how to survive—we prepare you to lead. Our training is designed with the point of view that every student is a potential survival craft commander.  That perspective matters. Because in a real abandonment scenario, technical skill alone is not enough. You need the ability to organize, command, and inspire survivors until everyone is safe.

Ready to take the next step in your maritime career?

Enroll in our Proficiency in Survival Craft Limited (PSCL) course today and gain the skills—and leadership confidence—you’ll need when it matters most.