Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats
Code frb · STCW A-VI/2-2
Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats under STCW A-VI/2-2 — qualifies the holder to take charge of a fast rescue boat (offshore standby vessels, ferries with FRBs). Surf launch and recovery, righting after capsize, search patterns, casualty recovery. Practical refresher every five years.
- Prerequisites
- psscrb
- Duration
- 28 hours
- Validity
- 5 years
- Refresher
- every 5 years
- Typical cost
- ~$480 USD
Where to take this course
Country guides list accredited training centres in the major seafarer-supplying nations:
Related glossary terms
High confidence
Editorial confidence: how we grade. Data sources and methodology: /sources.
Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats: FAQ
- What is the Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats (FRB) certification?
- Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats under STCW A-VI/2-2 — qualifies the holder to take charge of a fast rescue boat (offshore standby vessels, ferries with FRBs). Surf launch and recovery, righting after capsize, search patterns, casualty recovery. Practical refresher every five years. Referenced in STCW table A-VI/2-2. Category: STCW Lifeboat.
- Who needs FRB?
- FRB applies to seafarers in roles defined under STCW table A-VI/2-2. Recommended prerequisites: psscrb. Without FRB, operators may decline to roster you for the relevant duties.
- How long does FRB take?
- Typical course duration is 28 hours (3.5 working days at 8h/day). This is face-to-face or blended-learning time at an approved training centre; revalidation refresher courses are usually shorter. Plan against your sea leave window before booking.
- How much does FRB cost?
- Typical cost is around US$480 at an approved provider. Cost varies widely by country and training centre quality; many shipping companies cover the course fee as part of the contract. Check with your manning agent or fleet department before paying out of pocket.
- Where can I get FRB?
- FRB is delivered by approved training centres in most major maritime training countries. Use our /training-centres directory and the certifications-by-country filters to find an approved provider near you. The flag administration of your seaman's book may also publish a list of accepted providers.
- How long is FRB valid?
- 5 years from issue, with a refresher required every 5 years. Plan your revalidation course before the expiry date; lapsed certificates may require re-sitting the full course rather than a refresher, and operators may refuse to extend a contract while a critical certificate is expired.