1.  What is a survey?

    It is an examination of a vessel to insure that it is seaworthy and safe.  The survey

    also establishes a value for the vessel based on condition, age and local economic

    factors.

2. Who decides if a survey is necessary?

    Insurance underwriters may require a survey due to age of the vessel, history of a

    particular vessel, price of the vessel or other factors outlined by their company. The

    lender, when a vessel is being purchased, may require a survey as a condition of the

    loan.  The prospective buyer normally wants a survey as re-assurance that the

    vessel is sound, especially if the buyer cannot be available to see the vessel.

3.  Does the survey include a sea trial?

    Most certified marine surveyors consider a sea trial as an optional service at an

    additional charge. Surveys associated with insurance renewal rarely require a

    sea trial. Lenders rarely require a sea trial as a condition for a loan. Prospective

    buyers should discuss this issue with their surveyor.

4.  What is included in a typical Condition and Value survey?

    Each certified marine surveyor must answer this question even though all surveys

    will contain much similar information.  Speaking only about my surveys, they

    consist of 16 to 18 parts, depending on the type of vessel. The hull, deck and

    superstructure and their components are examined. All electrical and mechanical

    machinery and their associated conductors, controls and sensors are checked, as

    are the associated tanks, reservoirs and mountings.

    Finally, all aspects of the survey are controlled by the regulations and standards of

    the U.S. Coast Guard, American Boat and Yacht Council and National Fire

    Prevention Association, repespectively.

5.  What does a survey cost?

    All certified marine surveyors are independent businesses; therefore they all have

    their unique pricing structure versus what service you will receive.  I have attempted

    to keep my fee structure simple.  The survey fee is based on vessel length and type

    of vessel (power, sail, houseboat).  If optional services are required (ultrasonic hull

    testing, moisture testing, sea trials), then those fees are extra.  Please call or email

    for a specific survey price.

6.  How much time does a survey require?

    The larger the vessel with more equipment, the more time required. An average time

    spent aboard the vessel will be three hours.  The 30 page survey report requires 4 to

    5 working days to prepare and proof.  Some of that time is waiting for information

    from manufacurers regarding recalls or verifications.  The finished product can then

    be emailed or express mailed to our client.

7.  How long have I been a surveyor?

    This is a common, fair and necessary question.  I have been surveying vessels for

    over fourteen years.  I have been sailing since 1947; power boating since 1969;

    houseboating since 1977; and settled on a cabin cruiser in 1997.  My first

    professional career was as an engineer, chief engineer and consulting engineer.

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