PRE-PURCHASE SURVEY

A pre-purchase marine survey is a critical step when buying a yacht / boat. This inspection is performed by a qualified marine surveyor to assess the condition and overall seaworthiness of the boat. Here are the key aspects of a pre-purchase marine survey:

1. Hull Inspection: The surveyor will thoroughly inspect the hull of the boat, checking for signs of damage, delamination, osmotic blistering, or any structural issues. This may include percussive testing and moisture testing.
2. Deck and Superstructure: The deck, superstructure, and any other exterior components will be inspected for damage, wear, and potential water intrusion points.
3. Engines and Mechanical Systems: The surveyor will assess the condition and operation of the engines, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and other mechanical components.
4. Electronics and Navigation Equipment: The condition and general functionality of electronics, such as GPS, radar, sonar, and communication equipment, are checked.
5. Safety Equipment: The presence and condition of safety equipment like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and life rafts will be evaluated.
   6. Interior and Accommodations: The interior of the boat, including the cabin, galley, and sleeping quarters, will be inspected for signs of damage, mold, or other issues.
6. Plumbing and Sanitation: The plumbing, freshwater, and sanitation systems will be examined for leaks, corrosion, or malfunctions.
7. Sails and Rigging (Sailboats): For sailboats, the surveyor may assess the condition of sails, rigging, and the mast, depending on accessiblity.
8. Documentation and Compliance: The surveyor will check if the boat complies with relevant regulations and recommendations of USCG, ABYC, and NFPA, and they may review documentation such as the title, registration, and maintenance records.
9. Sea Trial: A sea trial is typically conducted to test the boat’s performance on the water, including engine performance, speed, handling, and maneuverability.
10. Moisture Readings: Moisture readings are often taken to check for water intrusion in the hull or deck, which can lead to structural problems.
11. Cosmetic and Aesthetic Assessment: The surveyor may also make note of cosmetic issues that don’t affect the boat’s seaworthiness but may be of concern to the buyer.

The surveyor will then provide a comprehensive report outlining their findings, which can be used to negotiate the purchase price, request repairs, or decide whether to proceed with the purchase. They are also used in obtaining insurance an financing in some cases. It’s crucial to hire a qualified and accredited marine surveyor for this inspection, as their expertise is essential in ensuring that you make an informed decision when buying a boat. The cost of the survey varies depending on the size and complexity of the vessel but is generally a wise investment to avoid potential pitfalls down the road.

INSURANCE SURVEY

Generally, the same process, but limited more so to general condition and significant deficiencies of safety and necessary service-related systems. A less thorough inspection which tends to exclude things like function of cabinets, blinds, entertainment equipment, and things which are not necessary for safe operation of the vessel.

THERMOGRAPHY

Thermography, often referred to as thermal imaging or infrared thermography, is a technology that uses infrared radiation to create images of objects based on their temperature differences. It can be applied to boats for various purposes, including maintenance, safety, and troubleshooting. Here are some common applications of thermography on boats:

1. Hull Inspection: Thermography can help detect hidden moisture, delamination, or voids within the hull of a boat. By identifying temperature differences, it’s possible to locate areas with potential structural issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.
2. Engine and Mechanical Systems Monitoring: Infrared thermography can be used to monitor the temperature of engines and mechanical components. This can help detect overheating parts, malfunctioning components, or areas that require maintenance.
3. Electrical System Inspection: Overheating electrical connections or components can pose a fire hazard on boats. Thermography can be used to identify hotspots in the electrical system, allowing for timely repairs and reducing the risk of electrical fires.
4. Leak Detection: Thermography can be used to identify water leaks, such as leaks in plumbing, hatches, or seals. It’s particularly useful for identifying leaks in difficult-to-access areas.
5. Preventative Maintenance: Regular thermographic inspections can aid in preventative maintenance, allowing boat owners to identify and address potential problems before they become critical, thereby reducing downtime and repair costs.

Keep in mind that environmental conditions, such as wind, rain, or sun, can affect the accuracy of thermal imaging, so it’s crucial to consider these factors when conducting thermography on boats.

MARINE DAMAGE CLAIMS

Marine damage claims inspections are critical for assessing the extent of damage, determining liability, and facilitating the claims process.

1. Surveyor Appointment: An independent marine surveyor is often appointed to assess the damage. Surveyors are typically experienced professionals who specialize in marine inspections. They may work for a surveying company or be contracted independently either by insurance companies, attorneys, P&L clubs, or by private parties.
2. Detailed Inspection: The surveyor conducts a preliminary assessment of the damage. This may involve inspecting the vessel, cargo, and any relevant documents. The surveyor determines the nature, cause, and extent of the damage.
3. Photographic Evidence: The surveyor takes photographs and makes detailed notes to provide evidence for the claim.
4. Interviews and Statements: The surveyor may interview crew members, witnesses, and other relevant parties to gather information about the incident.
5. Reports and Documentation: The surveyor compiles their findings into a detailed report. This report includes descriptions of the damage, probable causes, and recommendations for repairs or further actions. They may also review repair estimates for reasonable, fair, and customary charges.

Marine damage claims inspections are conducted with the utmost professionalism and objectivity to ensure a fair resolution to the incident and to facilitate the flow of goods and services in the maritime industry. The accuracy and thoroughness of the inspection and the resulting report are critical for all parties involved.

ENGINE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES

We provide some limited services for engine inspections and diagnostics. In owning a boat, the engine(s) are likely to be one of, if not the most, expensive parts of your cost of ownership. They are costly to maintain and more so to repair.

We will offer services and recommendations based on the type and age of the engines. In many cases we will recommend you contract a specialist (engine surveyor or engine mechanic) to assess engine condition. Services which we may offer, include computer diagnostics of the control module, compression testing of gasoline engines, and oil sampling.