Abstract: With the BeiDou message service system (BD-MSS), BeiDou search and rescue service being recognized by international organizations and the application of BeiDou short message service in domestic ships, BeiDou maritime distress and safety service has been initially formed. In this paper, the concept of the BeiDou global maritime distress and safety service system is proposed. The system architecture is given by introducing generalized BeiDou mission control center (BD-MCC). Functional characteristics of the system in Asia-Pacific and global sea area are analyzed from BeiDou featured services, maritime communication business to systems’ service. The architecture and specifications are sorted out of BeiDou message service system, BeiDou search and rescue service system, BeiDou emergency position indication system, BeiDou long-range identification and tracking system (LRIT), BeiDou ship security alarm system (SSAS) and the BeiDou maritime safety information broadcast system. The systematization, internationalization and customization of the system are given. The paper has reference value for the systematic application of BeiDou system in global maritime distress and safety business field.