🏆 IMRF Awards 2026

Honouring the people, teams and innovations that strengthen maritime search and rescue around the world.

Seven Awards. One Mission.

The IMRF Awards celebrate excellence across every aspect of maritime search and rescue, from frontline operational achievements and teamwork to innovation, leadership, diversity and lifetime service to the SAR community.

🌟 Outstanding Individual Contribution

Recognising an individual whose dedication, expertise, leadership or actions have made an exceptional contribution to maritime search and rescue. This award celebrates those who go above and beyond in the service of saving lives.

🤝 Outstanding Team Contribution

Maritime SAR is built on teamwork. This award recognises a team whose cooperation, professionalism and collective effort have delivered an outstanding contribution to a rescue operation, project or wider SAR activity.

🚀 Innovation & Technology Award

Honouring new ideas, technologies, systems or methodologies that improve the effectiveness, safety or efficiency of maritime SAR. This award celebrates innovation that delivers real-world impact for rescuers and those in distress.

⚓ #WomenInSAR Award

Sponsored by HamiltonJet

Recognising an individual who has made a significant contribution to creating opportunities for women and girls in maritime search and rescue, helping to build a stronger, more diverse SAR community.

🏅 Vladimir Maksimov Award for Lifetime Achievement

Sponsored by Inmarsat Maritime

Named in honour of Vladimir Maksimov, this prestigious award celebrates an individual's lifetime of dedication to maritime SAR and recognises a legacy of service that has had a lasting impact on the global rescue community.

🗳️ People's Choice Award

Sponsored by Navigate PR

Following the announcement of the finalists, the maritime SAR community and the wider public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite nomination.

Please note: This award is selected through public voting and does not accept direct nominations.

👑 Patron's Award

Chosen by the IMRF Patron, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, this distinguished award recognises an individual or team whose contribution to maritime search and rescue stands out as truly exceptional.

Please note: This award is selected from the nominations received and cannot be entered directly.

Recognising Excellence Across the Global SAR Community

Whether through courage, teamwork, innovation, inclusion or a lifetime of service, the IMRF Awards celebrate those making a meaningful difference in maritime search and rescue.