Marine Advanced First Aid is designed for professional mariners who require advanced emergency care skills while working aboard vessels. Meeting the requirements of Transport Canada TP 13008E, this comprehensive program prepares participants to assess, manage, and care for injured or ill patients until definitive medical assistance is available.
• Masters and Deck Officers
• Commercial vessel crew
• Near Coastal Class 1 personnel
• Unlimited voyage personnel
• Offshore marine workers
• 31-hour classroom course
• Canadian Red Cross certification
• Transport Canada TP 13008E compliant
• Advanced patient assessments
• Marine-specific medical scenarios
Browse upcoming Marine Basic First Aid courses or contact us to arrange private training for your crew or organization.
Through realistic demonstrations, guided practice, and hands-on scenarios, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to respond effectively to medical emergencies in marine and workplace environments. Learn to assess situations, take decisive action, and make informed decisions when every second counts.
Apply your training with confidence whether onboard a vessel, at the shoreline, or in the workplace.
Not sure which marine first aid course you need? Compare the two Transport Canada-recognized programs below to find the certification that is right for your role.
| Course Feature | Marine Basic First Aid | Marine Advanced First Aid |
|---|---|---|
| Designed For |
• Commercial fishers
• Deckhands • Small-vessel operators • Harbour personnel • Marina personnel |
• Masters
• Officers • Senior crew • Personnel with advanced onboard medical responsibilities |
|
Transport Canada MAFA Required For |
Not applicable to MBFA |
Any person designated to provide first aid onboard a vessel
engaged on a near-coastal voyage, Class 1,
or an unlimited voyage.
Also intended for participants seeking a master or officer certificate or endorsement. |
| Transport Canada Recognized | ✓ | ✓ |
| Canadian Red Cross Certification | ✓ | ✓ |
| CPR & AED | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hands-On Practical Training | ✓ | ✓ |
| Patient Assessment | Foundational | Advanced |
| Medical Emergencies | Foundational | Advanced |
| Trauma Management | Initial Care | Advanced Care |
| Environmental & Immersion Injuries | Included | Expanded |
| Extended Casualty Care | Not Included | Included |
| Advanced Medical Decision-Making | Not Included | Included |
| Course Length |
16 Hours
2 days
|
40 Hours
5 days
|
Whether you’re working offshore, operating commercial vessels, supporting harbour operations, or preparing for recreational boating responsibilities, LifeShield delivers practical, hands-on Marine Basic First Aid training that prepares you for real-world emergencies.
Learn from experienced emergency responders and Canadian Red Cross instructors who combine real-world operational experience with engaging, practical teaching.
Build confidence through realistic scenarios, practical skill stations, and guided coaching designed to prepare you for emergencies in marine and workplace environments.
Our Marine Basic First Aid course meets Transport Canada requirements while providing nationally recognized Canadian Red Cross certification.
Individuals, marine employers, businesses, and organizations across Atlantic Canada trust LifeShield for professional, high-quality first aid training.
Select your training format and location to view upcoming course dates and availability.
Complete your Standard First Aid training in one instructor-led classroom session.
plus HST
Per Transport Canada, Marine Advanced First Aid recertifications are not currently permitted.
Complete Marine Advanced First Aid in a 5-day instructor-led classroom session. Choose your preferred upcoming session.
Need BLS training for your team? We offer convenient on-site training for workplaces and groups throughout Nova Scotia