One of the biggest questions we receive at Pathfinder Maritime Training (PMT) is “What’s the difference between Lifeboatman and Lifeboatman Limited, and which one do I need?”
The short version is that a Lifeboat credential includes a Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) endorsement and the Lifeboatman Limited does not include a PSC endorsement. While this is the high-level difference, the details matter.
TLDR: If you want to work on domestic vessels, such as tugs, ferries, dredges, etc, a Lifeboatman Limited is likely the right choice for you.
The Credential You Need: Able Seaman with Lifeboatman Limited
Most of our students want to earn a Lifeboatman Limited or Lifeboatman credential to pair with an Able Seaman credential. Ultimately, the decision of whether the “limited” matters depends on the type of vessel you will be working on.
The “Limited” Distinction
Long story short: If you want to work on domestic, non-STCW vessels, such as ferries, tugs, dredges, and supply boats,, a Lifeboatman Limited credential is the right choice for you.
The Limited certification meets the requirement for a Lifeboatman/Survival Craft competency only on vessels that are not covered by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
In simple terms:
- It’s a domestic (US-only) certification.
- It is sufficient for non-STCW vessels, such as certain inspected and uninspected commercial vessels, harbor tugs, smaller passenger vessels, and specialized inland craft.
Mariners who hold this credential are qualified to perform all duties of an Able Seaman and are designated to take charge of a survival craft, provided the vessel is not subject to STCW regulations.
Again, most U.S. vessels, such as ferries, tugs, dredges, and certain supply vessels, only require a Lifeboatman Limited credential.
⚓ Ready to get started? The Able Seaman with Lifeboatman Limited endorsement is the focus of our flexible, NMC-approved online training course designed for the modern mariner.
Proficiency in Survival Craft: The “Unlimited” Distinction
Long story short: If you want to work on international, STCW vessels, a Lifeboatman “Unlimited” credential is the right choice for you as it includes a PSC endorsement.
PSC is an STCW endorsement and is required for all personnel designated to take charge of a survival craft or rescue boat on STCW-regulated vessels. These are typically larger vessels or those engaged in international voyages.
The PSC endorsement:
- Is a globally recognized certification.
- Requires more extensive training, usually involving several days of in-person, hands-on activities.
- Covers a broader range of survival craft and rescue boat operations, including advanced concepts for launching and recovery of both lifeboats and rescue boats.
If you plan to work on ships that cross oceans or require an international crew, the PSC endorsement is non-negotiable.
Head-to-Head Comparison: PSC vs. AB Lifeboatman Limited
To help you decide which credential is right for your career, here is a quick comparison of the two endorsements:
To help you decide which credential is best for you, the below table provides a quick comparison.
| Feature | AB with Lifeboatman Limited | Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) |
| Regulatory Basis | USCG / Domestic Standards | USCG & STCW (International Standards) |
| Scope of Vessels | Non-STCW vessels (primarily domestic trade) | All STCW-regulated vessels (international trade, large vessels) |
| Required Training | A specialized, focused course, which can often be completed with online written exams and in-person practicals. | More extensive, traditionally in-person, hands-on training (usually 40+ hours). |
| Recognition | Recognized only within the United States. | Globally recognized by all nations adhering to the STCW convention. |
| Commonly Known As | AB Limited, AB Lifeboatman (Limited) | Lifeboatman Unlimited, PSC |
Which Lifeboatman Endorsement Do You Need?
Choose Lifeboatman Limited if:
- You work exclusively on domestic, non-STCW vessels such as inland towboats, Great Lakes freighters, small ferries, or dinner cruise ships.
- You want the most efficient, NMC-approved path to upgrade your AB rating, often utilizing modern online learning and testing methods.
Choose Proficiency Lifeboatman if:
- You plan to work on ocean going vessels or on ships that engage in international voyages.
- The vessel you are applying to is STCW-regulated.
Your Next Step
If your goal is to quickly and efficiently secure a position on domestic vessels, earning an Able Seaman with Lifeboatman Limited is the ideal choice. Already have your Able Seaman credential, but need a lifeboatman limited credential, check out Pathfinder’s online Lifeboatman Limited course.
Starting from scratch with no credential, checkout Pathfinder’s Able Seaman with Lifeboatman Limited course which will take you from zero to certified.
All of Pathfinder’s courses are approved by the National Maritime Center (NMC) and can be taken completely online, at your own pace and on your own schedule!
Drop any questions you may have in the comments below, and we’ll respond as soon as possible!
