Course Purpose Statement
The Fast Rescue Boat certification develops advanced maritime rescue capabilities essential for emergency response operations in challenging marine environments. This intensive program transforms experienced mariners into skilled rescue boat coxswains capable of conducting high-speed rescue operations, coordinating search patterns, and executing complex person-in-water recoveries under adverse conditions while maintaining crew and victim safety.

Comprehensive Learning Outcomes
Students master high-speed rescue boat maneuvering techniques across varying weather and sea conditions, developing expertise in precision boat handling during emergency scenarios. The curriculum encompasses advanced search and rescue pattern execution, coordinated team-based rescue operations, and specialized person-in-water recovery procedures including hypothermic victim management. Participants demonstrate proficiency in towing operations, vessel-to-vessel transfers, and fast rescue boat launch and recovery procedures using both gravity and freefall systems. Training includes navigation in restricted visibility, emergency communication protocols, equipment maintenance procedures, and leadership skills necessary for commanding rescue operations under extreme time pressure.

Specialized Equipment and Marine Training Environment
Training utilizes Seafarers Worldwide's fleet of certified fast rescue boats equipped with modern rescue systems, high-performance engines, and state-of-the-art navigation equipment identical to vessels found aboard commercial ships and offshore platforms. Students operate actual davit systems, winches, and recovery equipment in Anacortes' protected marine waters, providing realistic training conditions without compromising safety. The program features hands-on experience with specialized rescue equipment including recovery strops, Jason's cradles, medical equipment, and emergency communication systems. Water-based exercises utilize controlled marine environments that simulate real-world rescue scenarios while maintaining comprehensive safety protocols.

Regulatory Compliance Framework
This course satisfies stringent requirements established under the International Maritime Organization's STCW Code Section A-VI/2 and Table A-VI/2-2 for Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats. The program meets United States Coast Guard training requirements outlined in 46 CFR 12.617(a)(3) and competency demonstration standards under 46 CFR 12.617(a)(4). All training components comply with SOLAS Chapter III regulations for rescue boat operations and incorporate IMO Resolution MSC.81(70) guidelines for fast rescue boat performance standards. Course content aligns with industry best practices established by the International Association of Maritime Rescue Organizations.

Certification and Advanced Credentials
Upon successful completion, graduates receive a United States Coast Guard-approved STCW endorsement for Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats, qualifying them for rescue boat coxswain positions aboard vessels required to carry fast rescue boats including offshore supply vessels, cruise ships, and cargo vessels operating internationally. This specialized certification enhances career opportunities in offshore oil and gas operations, search and rescue services, and maritime emergency response teams. The credential serves as advanced qualification for specialized maritime roles requiring rapid response capabilities and expert boat handling skills.

Elite Maritime Rescue Specialization
The Fast Rescue Boat certification represents specialized expertise within the maritime safety field, positioning graduates as essential crew members capable of life-saving operations in emergency situations. This advanced training ensures mariners possess the technical competency, decision-making ability, and leadership skills necessary to conduct successful rescue operations while maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in high-stakes maritime environments.