Real-life maritime survival techniques demonstrated at Gdynia Maritime University

The programme began with a lecture at the Faculty of Navigation Auditorium, delivered by Wojciech Paczkowski from the Polish Maritime Search and Rescue Service (SAR). The presentation offered insights into the operational realities of maritime rescue missions, the most common threats encountered at sea, and the challenges faced by SAR units. The lecture also highlighted major maritime disasters and emphasized how passengers can actively support rescue operations through proper awareness and behaviour.

The practical session followed at the Faculty of Navigation swimming pool and involved students of Gdynia Maritime University. The demonstrations were conducted by instructors from the University’s Department of Physical Education and Sport: Dr Andrzej Lachowicz, Director of the University Sports and Recreation Centre, along with Mariusz Grabowski and Tomasz Zięba, who regularly deliver Individual Survival Techniques (IST) training at the University.

During the water-based exercises, participants demonstrated a range of survival procedures, including jumping into the water wearing a lifejacket, helicopter hoisting simulations, righting an overturned liferaft, and swimming in immersion suits combined with group formation techniques. The demonstrations provided a realistic overview of the level of preparation required for maritime professionals before their first deployment at sea.

Expert commentary was provided by Aleksander Wójcik, an instructor cooperating with the University’s Training Centre, who explained the purpose and real-world application of each technique as it was demonstrated.

“Echoes of Heweliusz” once again underlined the importance of hands-on training and experiential learning in maritime education, showing how theoretical knowledge translates into life-saving skills in real emergency situations.