Module 1.15 min read4-question checkNo prior experience needed
Module 1.1
Your first deployment starts here
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 rules that feel unfamiliar on day one exist because people learned them the hard way.
This module covers what you need to know before you board: how a SAR vessel is structured, the language the crew uses, and the unwritten rules that determine how well you'll integrate.
What you'll cover
Vessel layout and key areas — Essential maritime terminology — How life aboard works — The 5 rules every new crew member needs to know
Estimated time
5 minutes — followed by a short knowledge check
Section 1 of 3
Anatomy of a SAR vessel
A humanitarian SAR vessel like the Ocean Viking is typically a converted offshore supply or multipurpose ship — between 60 and 100 metres long, with a large open stern deck used for rescue operations, medical facilities below, and a bridge (the command centre) at the top forward section.
SternRescue ops / RHIB
MedicalTriage & treatment
Accomm.Crew cabins & mess
BridgeNavigation & command
The stern — the rear of the vessel — is the operational heart of a SAR ship. RHIBs are launched and recovered here, and survivors come aboard at this point. The medical area is typically directly below or adjacent, minimising the distance between rescue and treatment.
Orientation tip
On your first day aboard, walk the full vessel from bow to stern before any briefing. Know where the muster stations, exits, medical bay, and your cabin are. Do it before you need to find them in the dark.
Section 2 of 3
The language of the ship
Maritime terminology exists for precision and speed. When someone on the bridge gives an order, there's no room for ambiguity. Learn these before you board — you'll hear them constantly.
Port
Left side of the vessel when facing forward. Port and left both have four letters.
Starboard
Right side of the vessel when facing forward. Starboard navigation light is green.
Bow
The front of the vessel. "Forward" means toward the bow.
Stern
The rear of the vessel. "Aft" means toward the stern.
Bridge
The command and navigation centre, usually elevated at the forward section.
Mess
The communal eating area. Also where informal crew briefings often happen.
Muster station
Your assigned emergency assembly point. Know this before departure.
RHIB
Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat — the fast rescue craft deployed from the stern.
Watch
A scheduled period of duty. Vessels operate 24/7 on rotating watches.
Standing orders
Permanent instructions from the Master that apply at all times.
Section 3 of 3
Five rules from day one
These aren't suggestions. Every experienced seafarer knows them, and every newcomer is judged quickly on whether they do too.
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 and a fall overboard is a SAR incident your crew doesn't need.
2
Never walk onto the bridge uninvited. The bridge is the command space. If you need to be there, ask. Unexpected presence during manoeuvres or comms is a distraction that can have real consequences.
3
Know your muster station and emergency signals before the vessel moves. Familiarise yourself with the alarm signals — general alarm, fire, abandon ship. These are briefed on embarkation. Pay attention.
4
Ask before you touch anything operational. Equipment on a working vessel has a state — stowed, rigged, live. Moving something without knowing its status can compromise a system or injure someone.
5
Sleep when you can, eat when you can. Operational tempo on a SAR vessel is unpredictable. A rescue can begin at 0300 after 16 hours of nothing. Rest is not optional — it's part of your job.
The master's authority
At sea, the Master has absolute authority over the vessel and everyone aboard — regardless of your 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.
Knowledge check
Before you move on
Four questions — the things you should know before boarding.