Overview

• Founded in Kiel on May 29, 1865, the DGzRS has grown from oar-powered boats to modern self-righting rescue cruisers.
• A volunteer corps of about 1,000 staff and crew operates from 55 stations along the North and Baltic Seas.
• The service conducts around 2,000 missions each year, aiding between 3,000 and 3,500 people in distress or needing medical transport.
• DGzRS finances its annual budget of roughly €58.8 million entirely through donations without state funding.
• To address increasing sea traffic and distant wind parks, the organization is commissioning its first full-plastic lifeboats for greater durability.