Marine Survey Services

Marine Survey Services

• Pre-Purchase Marine Surveys

  This is the most comprehensive inspection of a vessel and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used boat. The survey covers the hull, deck, superstructure, systems, engines, electrical, plumbing, safety equipment, and overall structural integrity to provide a detailed assessment of the vessel's condition, seaworthiness, and any potential issues or repair needs.

• Insurance Marine Surveys

  This survey is meant to be a general overview of the vessel and its systems for insurance underwriting and financing. It evaluates the overall condition, safety systems, and key components to help insurers determine risk, coverage eligibility, and appropriate policy terms.

• Tonnage Measurement Surveys

  These surveys are performed to measure the vessel's internal volume and calculate its gross and net tonnage in accordance with official regulations. We are approved for MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) Tonnage Measurement Surveys, which are often required for vessel registration, certification, and compliance with international maritime standards.

• Appraisal Inspections

  These inspections are performed to gather detailed information to justify and determine the fair market value of the vessel. The surveyor evaluates the boat's age, condition, equipment, maintenance history, and comparable market sales to provide an accurate valuation for sales, financing, estate planning, or legal purposes.

• Damage Inspections

  The surveyor can be retained by an insurance company, owner, or other party to determine the cause of a loss and assess the extent of loss-related damage. This includes documenting the affected areas, evaluating repair costs, and providing recommendations to restore the vessel to its pre-loss condition.

• Sea Trials

  A sea trial is conducted to verify that the engine and propulsion systems operate within the manufacturer's specifications. A rudimentary engine inspection is performed, observing wide-open throttle RPMs, hoses, belts, fuel lines, motor mounts, fluid leaks, exhaust smoke, and engine temperatures. Steering, throttle, shift controls, and other installed equipment are also checked. If issues are found, repair recommendations are provided or referral to a manufacturer-certified mechanic is advised.

• Osmosis Testing

  Osmosis testing is used to determine if excess moisture is present in areas of the hull that may not be visible to the eye. Moisture can exist without visible delamination and this test helps pinpoint potential problem areas. It is commonly performed on vessels showing signs of moisture around fittings, blisters, or soft spots in the transom, stringers, or bulkheads.

  Note that moisture meters have limitations due to variables such as bottom paint, voids, bilge water, and time out of the water; readings may require destructive testing for full verification.

• Oil Analysis (Spectrometry)

  This test analyzes the engine's oil to detect excess wear through metal particles and checks for contamination by fuel, coolant, or saltwater. It requires information on oil service hours and any makeup oil added. A first-time analysis is particularly useful for identifying serious issues such as a blown head gasket or leaking exhaust manifold. Samples are sent to a laboratory, with results typically available in 7–10 days.

• Corrosion Analysis

  This survey evaluates the vessel's bonding system, zinc anode protection levels, and the presence of stray current corrosion. Corrosion is a serious issue that can rapidly deteriorate submerged metal components such as propellers, lower units, and thru-hulls if left unchecked. Proper assessment helps prevent costly damage and ensures the vessel's underwater metals remain protected.