What is the difference between coastal rescue and offshore rescue?

The distinction is largely one of location and resources. Coastal rescue operates near shore (often within a few miles of land) in relatively sheltered waters. It is typically conducted using small, fast lifeboats or inshore rescue craft. Offshore rescue covers open-sea or deepwater incidents, further from land. It often requires larger, all-weather capable vessels (and often long-range SAR aircraft) capable of handling rough seas and weather conditions. Offshore SAR may involve national coastguard patrol cutters, naval ships, or passing vessels. In short, coastal rescues generally rely on shallow-water boats and local teams, while offshore rescues use high-seas craft and aircraft to cover the longer distances and potentially more challenging conditions.