Top 10 Rescue Boat Manufacturers for Search and Rescue in 2025

Finding the right rescue boat manufacturer is crucial for maritime safety operations, emergency response teams, and commercial vessels. Whether you need a fast rescue craft for offshore operations or a SOLAS-certified rescue boat for your fleet, choosing a reliable manufacturer can mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations. This guide highlights the top 10 rescue boat manufacturers worldwide, helping you make an informed decision for your search and rescue needs.

What Makes a Great Rescue Boat Manufacturer?

Before diving into our top 10 list, it's important to understand what separates excellent rescue boat manufacturers from the rest. The best manufacturers combine decades of experience, international certifications, advanced materials, and proven track records in real-world rescue operations.

Key qualities to look for include:

• SOLAS and IMO compliance—All rescue boats must meet international maritime safety standards

• Multiple certifications—Look for CCS, BV, ABS, RINA, IRS, RMRS, NK, and EC certificates

• Advanced materials—Modern rescue boats use FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) for superior strength and corrosion resistance

• Proven experience—Manufacturers with decades of experience and thousands of boats delivered worldwide

• Global service network—Support and parts availability when you need them most

Top 10 Rescue Boat Manufacturers for 2025

1. New Marine (China)

New Marine rescue boats

New Marine ranks among China's top rescue boat manufacturers with over 50 years of experience. The company operates from an 11,000-square-meter facility with over 80 employees and produces more than 200 rescue boats annually. Its boats comply with SOLAS 1974 amendments and LSA Code requirements, featuring FRP hulls and stainless steel fittings for maximum durability.

Key Products:

• Fast rescue boats (6–8.5 meters)

• Standard rescue boats (3.8–8.5 meters)

• Totally enclosed lifeboats

• Free-fall lifeboats

• Launching systems (Davits)

Certifications: CCS, BV, ABS, RINA, IRS, RMRS, NK, EC

2. Zodiac Milpro (France)

Zodiac Milpro inflatable rescue boat

With over 125 years of innovation, Zodiac Milpro leads the global market for professional rigid inflatable boats. The company has delivered more than 20,000 boats used daily by the military, coast guard, and rescue organizations in 80+ countries. Its Emergency Response Boat (ERB) series is specifically designed for search and rescue operations.

Key Products:

• ERB (Emergency Response Boat) series

• FUTURA COMMANDO boats

• MARK series for versatile operations

• Professional inflatable rescue boats

Notable Achievement: Zodiac pioneered inflatable boat technology and holds numerous patents in the field.

3. Palfinger Marine (Europe)

Palfinger Marine rescue boat

Palfinger Marine combines decades of marine expertise with cutting-edge technology to produce high-performance rescue boats. Its fast rescue boats feature excellent maneuverability and stability, even in demanding sea conditions. The company recently developed state-of-the-art RHIBs for the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution.

Key Products:

• Stinger series fast rescue boats

• FRSQ series (6–8 meter range)

• Custom RHIB designs

• Integrated davit systems

Innovation Focus: Palfinger emphasizes reduced maintenance, increased reliability, and environmental sustainability.

4. Survitec Group (UK/International)

Survitec Group semi-rigid inflatable rescue boat

Survitec Group brings 80+ years of expertise in maritime safety equipment. Its comprehensive range includes rigid and inflatable rescue boats designed for commercial and military applications. The company's DSB division pioneered rescue boat design and manufacturing in 1931, making it one of the most experienced manufacturers globally.

Key Products:

• RIBO series (rigid/inflatable rescue boats)

• DSB inflatable rescue boats

• SOLAS-certified rescue boats

• Military-grade fast rescue boats

Special Feature: Its 420 GP/GPM FR inflatable rescue boat can be deployed in just 40 seconds using a single 9-liter air cylinder.

5. Fassmer (Germany)

Fassmer fast rescue boat

Fassmer has built a worldwide reputation for manufacturing high-end rescue boats for specialized operations. Its boats are designed for immediate deployment and feature robust construction suitable for harsh marine environments. Fassmer boats are used by navies, coast guards, and commercial operators globally.

Key Products:

• FRR series fast rescue boats

• SEL-RT series partially enclosed lifeboats

• Commercial rescue boats for ferries and cruise ships

• Custom military rescue boats

Key Advantage: Modular design allows different engine and layout options to meet specific customer needs.

6. ASIS Boats (UAE)

ASIS Boats SAR (search and rescue) boat

ASIS Boats has earned recognition as one of the few SOLAS-certified RIB manufacturers worldwide. Based in Dubai, they serve the global market with high-quality rescue boats for firefighters, search and rescue specialists, and military operations. Its boats feature patented single-point lifting systems for efficient deployment.

Key Products:

• 6.5m SOLAS rescue boats

• Custom firefighting rescue boats

• Professional grade RHIBs

• Military and commercial rescue vessels

Certifications: ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, European CE approval, NMMA, ABYC, USCG approval

7. Norsafe/Viking Norsafe (Norway)

VIKING Norsafe rescue boat

As one of Norway's oldest boat-building companies, Norsafe has delivered more than 25,000 lifeboats to the global market. The company produces a comprehensive range of rescue boats and is the global market leader in marine life-saving systems. Its boats feature proven hull designs for smooth operation and excellent maneuverability.

Key Products:

• Matrix series rescue boats

• Fast rescue boats with waterjet propulsion

• Totally enclosed lifeboats

• Free-fall lifeboats (up to 51m drop height)

Innovation: Recently developed the world's first electrically powered rescue boat (E-Mako-655) in collaboration with VIKING Life-Saving Equipment.

8. Willard Marine (USA)

Willard Marine SOLAS fast rescue boat

Willard Marine holds the distinction of being the only American manufacturer of SOLAS-certified fast rescue boats. The company has developed world-class watercraft for the U.S. military, the Department of Homeland Security, and international customers. Its SOLAS boats serve military agencies and large maritime operations worldwide.

Key Products:

• SOLAS 670, 590, 540, and 490 rescue boats

• SEA FORCE 1100 military RIBs

• Custom rescue boat designs

• Professional first responder boats

Military Heritage: Willard Marine has been the preferred supplier for the U.S. Navy's 11-meter RIBs for over 15 years.

9. Gemini Marine (South Africa)

Gemini Marine rescue RIB

Gemini Marine has designed and manufactured a comprehensive range of RIBs and inflatable boats for over 40 years. The company serves rescue, military, and patrol organizations worldwide, with particular strength in providing boats for the National Sea Rescue Institute of South Africa. Its boats are recognized for resilience, reliability, and durability in extreme conditions.

Key Products:

• Waverider series rescue boats (550–1060 models)

• Stormrider GRP cabin boats

• Professional rescue craft

• Custom design capabilities

Quality Assurance: DNV GL certified quality management system ensures consistent excellence.

10. Maritime Partner (Norway)

Maritime Partner fast rescue craft

Maritime Partner has delivered more than 2,300 boats worldwide, with particular expertise in naval and rescue applications. The company recently secured a landmark contract to deliver seven advanced SAR vessels, marking its largest order in company history. Its boats serve major offshore operators, cruise lines, and search and rescue organizations globally.

Key Products:

• Sjøbjørn series SAR vessels

• Seabear series rescue boats

• Fast rescue boats (5–25 meters)

• Custom patrol and work boats

Global Reach: Maritime Partner has supplied boats to 21 different nations, with agents in 18 countries.

Choosing the Right Rescue Boat Manufacturer for Your Needs

For Commercial Vessels

Large commercial operators should prioritize manufacturers with:

• Proven track record with major shipping companies

• Global service networks

• SOLAS certification capabilities

• Experience with integrated davit systems

Recommended: New Marine, Zodiac Milpro, Palfinger Marine, Survitec Group

For Military and Government Applications

Military buyers need manufacturers offering:

• Custom design capabilities

• Classified or secure communication integration

• Ruggedized construction for extreme conditions

• Long-term government contract experience

Recommended: Willard Marine, Fassmer, Maritime Partner

For Offshore and Oil & Gas Operations

Offshore operators should focus on manufacturers with:

• Experience in harsh marine environments

• Fast rescue boat capabilities

• Helicopter compatibility

• 24/7 global support networks

Recommended: New Marine, Norsafe, ASIS Boats

For Emergency Services and Coast Guarding

Emergency responders need manufacturers who provide:

• Rapid deployment capabilities

• Multi-mission flexibility

• Cost-effective solutions

• Local service support

Recommended: New Marine, Gemini Marine, Survitec Group, Maritime Partner

For Fishing Vessels and Smaller Commercial Operations

Smaller commercial operators should consider manufacturers offering:

• Standard rescue boat solutions

• Proven durability in marine environments

• Cost-effective pricing

• Simplified maintenance requirements

Recommended: New Marine

Why New Marine

New Marine

When evaluating rescue boat manufacturers, New Marine offers compelling advantages that extend beyond basic specifications and certifications.

Competitive Cost Advantage

As a leading Chinese rescue boat manufacturer, New Marine offers significant cost advantages compared to European and American competitors, without compromising on quality or safety compliance. This is particularly attractive for budget-conscious operators.

Complete System Solutions

Beyond individual boats, New Marine provides integrated davit systems, including single-arm davits, A-frame davits, and hydraulic systems. This allows you to source complete rescue boat systems from a single manufacturer, simplifying procurement, installation, and maintenance.

Global Track Record

New Marine serves 50+ customers across major nations worldwide, demonstrating proven international reliability and acceptance. This global client base provides testament to product quality and real-world performance in diverse maritime environments.

Advanced Materials and Construction

Utilizing high-quality FRP construction with polyurethane foam buoyancy and stainless steel fittings, New Marine rescue boats incorporate self-righting capabilities while maximizing corrosion resistance and longevity in harsh marine conditions.

Conclusion

Selecting the right rescue boat manufacturer requires careful consideration of your specific needs, operating environment, and regulatory requirements. The top 10 manufacturers listed here represent the best combination of experience, innovation, and reliability in the global market. New Marine, in particular, offers exceptional value for operators seeking reliable, certified rescue boats with comprehensive manufacturer support and competitive pricing.

Investing in quality rescue boats from reputable manufacturers is ultimately an investment in safety and lives. Consult with marine safety professionals at New Marine to help you choose wisely and ensure your rescue operations have the reliable equipment needed when every second counts.