Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre

Abbreviation: MRCC

National coordinating centre that receives distress alerts and orchestrates SAR operations within a defined Search and Rescue Region (SRR).

In practice

Master notifies the appropriate MRCC via DSC distress alert + INMARSAT/Iridium voice for any incident requiring SAR. MRCC coordinates with vessels in the area and shore-based assets; the master stays on dedicated frequency until released.

Regulatory detail & full definition

Required by the SAR Convention 1979. Each coastal state operates one or more; MRCC Falmouth (UK), MRCC Stavanger (NO), JRCC Honolulu (US), Maritime Search and Rescue Center Türkiye (TR) etc. Coordinates with neighbouring MRCCs across SRR boundaries. Vessels in distress contact via INMARSAT-C distress alert, EPIRB activation, or VHF Ch 16.

Basic Safety Training
Emergency Escape Breathing Device
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
Fire Safety Systems Code
Life-Saving Appliances Code

Source: International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue 1979 (SAR)

High confidence

Editorial confidence: how we grade.

Found an error on this page? Report it →

Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre

In practice

Related

Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre

In practice

Related