In 2024, the IMRF marked a landmark year of achievement and reflection, strengthening its mission to prevent loss of life at sea by uniting organisations worldwide, sharing expertise, and promoting best practice in maritime search and rescue (SAR).

The year was defined by the IMRF’s centenary celebrations, commemorated with a special event in London attended by Patron Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, prominent shipping and international SAR leaders. This milestone honoured a century of progress while setting a course for the next hundred years of innovation and collaboration.

Several important initiatives were advanced during the year. The #SARyouOK? guidance offered practical resources to support the mental health and wellbeing of SAR personnel. The #FutureSAR report addressed the impact of climate change on operations, with Phase Two launched to develop practical tools for resilience. The SAR Aviation Panel convened five times to encourage sharing of best practise in aviation SAR, while the #SaferSAR initiative, in collaboration with CHIRP, began work on a global incident reporting system to identify risks and improve safety.

Knowledge-sharing remained central to the IMRF’s work. The 10th Lifeboat Crew Exchange brought together 51 participants from 12 countries, the Regional Seminar in Victoria, Canada convened over 40 delegates, and the Global Maritime SAR Forum delivered 10 webinars with more than 200 attendees. In addition, the publication of the Rescue Boat Service Implementation Guide and the third Mass Rescue Operations Course provided practical tools and training to strengthen global preparedness.

While the Annual Meeting in Thessaloniki, Greece, gathered 124 participants from 34 organisations. The meeting combined workshops on sustainability, technology and flood response with a live demonstration, and culminated in the IMRF Awards 2024, which included the first-ever Patron’s Award.

Equality, diversity and inclusion remained a priority, with the expansion of the #WomenInSAR programme and the inaugural EDI Seminar in Thessaloniki, highlighting the sector’s commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient maritime SAR community.

In a year of innovation, collaboration and celebration, the IMRF reaffirmed its position as the leading voice in global maritime SAR, committed to safer seas, stronger partnerships, and the continued advancement of rescue practices worldwide.

Click the link to download the Annual Report for more information on IMRF activities.