Judgement & Decision-Making in High-Risk Maritime Search and Rescue Operations

Abstract

In maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, decisions must often be made quickly, under pressure, and with incomplete information. This study investigates how experienced maritime professionals, specifically On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs), make decisions and judgments during simulated SAR scenarios. By applying psychological theories such as dual process theory, naturalistic decision-making (NDM), and ecological rationality, the research explores the interplay between intuition, analytical reasoning, experience, and heuristics in high-risk environments.

Data were collected through full-mission bridge simulations, post-simulation interviews, and observation notes, and analysed using thematic coding and an abductive approach. The findings show that intuitive strategies were not only prevalent but often highly effective. Heuristics, recognition-based judgments, and shared mental models shaped the decision-making more than formal analysis. At the same time, analytical processes were also engaged. The study challenges the notion that intuitive decision-making is inherently flawed and emphasises the importance of structured experience and reflective training in developing safe and adaptive expertise.

This research contributes to maritime safety by highlighting the cognitive foundations of realtime decision-making and offers practical insights for the design of training environments, leadership development, and future revisions of operational guidelines.