PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
MARINE SURVEYS
Pre-Purchase, Insurance, Damage, Valuation, Oil Analysis, Rigging Inspections, Hull Inspections
CONSULTATION
Boat Buying, Training, Maintenance, Offshore Cruising
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Installations, Repairs, and Refits
What To Expect From A Marine Survey?
The most common type of survey we do is a "pre-purchase" survey that includes the condition and valuation of the vessel. You can expect the surveyor to perform a thorough inspection of the vessel's hull, deck, structural supports, safety equipment, and supporting systems. A good surveyor will test all systems for functionality and provide appropriate recommendations and condition statements relating to each system on board.
What Will It Cost?
The price of a marine survey varies based on the length, type, and age of the vessel. Additional items that can effect the price include factors like the location of the vessel, the type of survey requested, and any additional services needed. Generally the cost for a survey is between $23 to $32 dollars per foot based on the overall length (LOA) of the vessel. At this time we charge a flat rate of $25 per foot.
How Soon Can I Get The Report?
We guarantee to deliver the report in .pdf format to your email inbox within 72 hours from when the survey was performed.
How To Prepare Your Vessel For A Marine Survey?
-
If applicable, you will need to make arrangements with the marina to haul the vessel for bottom inspection, and retain a captain for sea trials. EWMS can help arrange a captain for you.​
​
-
​Lockers and cabin areas should be cleared of all miscellaneous gear.​
​
-
All locked compartments should be unlocked or combination/key location provided.
​
-
If performing a sea trail, ensure the vessel has fuel, life jackets, and all USCG required safety gear.
-
The boat should be clean and free of excessive personal items and accessories that may clutter any inspection area.
​
-
Hull sides and decks should be cleaned and free of excessive dirt and debris.
​
-
Batteries should be fully charged. If possible, the boat should be plugged into shore power.
​
-
Ensure bilges are clean and free of debris or water.
​
-
Provide information of recent upgrades or replacements.
​
-
The surveyor may request minor dismantling of interior ceilings, headliners, flooring, etc. in order to gain access to suspected areas of interest.
PRE-PURCHASE (CONDITION AND VALUATION) SURVEYS
-
This is the most common, and most comprehensive survey we offer. When someone is purchasing a vessel, they will need to have a pre-purchase marine survey done in order to meet insurance and, if applicable, lender requirements. If the buyer is not planning to insure the vessel, and does not require a loan, then it is still recommended that a pre-purchase marine survey be performed in order to determine the overall condition of the vessel and it's compliance with the USCG Code of Federal Regulations and American Boat and Yacht Council's (ABYC) standards.
-
A pre-purchase marine survey will include a detailed inspection of the vessel both in and out of the water (unless restrictions apply). It will consist of examining the structural integrity of the hull and deck(s), propulsion systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, navigation equipment, safety equipment, cosmetic appearance, miscellaneous onboard systems, and overall maintenance of the vessel. A limited trial run of up to one hour is usually performed with the support of a qualified captain and crew.
-
After the survey is performed, you will receive a detailed report of the vessel, its systems, and the surveyors findings and recommendations. You will also receive a "Fair Market Value" and "Estimated Replacement Cost" valuation based on comparable boats sold, current listings, and BucValuPro's pricing guide, if applicable.
​
INSURANCE SURVEYS
-
This type of survey is typically performed at the request of an insurance company to determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk to take on. Insurance companies are usually concerned with structural integrity and safety equipment. Insurance companies will usually inform the surveyor of any specific items they are concerned with.
-
For older boats, most insurance companies will require a survey periodically or when writing a new policy. Most of the time they will also request the surveyor to provide them with a current market value for the vessel.
-
Uninspected passenger boats, like fishing charter boats are generally required to have an insurance survey done every five years.
​
DAMAGE SURVEYS
-
The surveyor can be contacted by an insurance company to determine the nature, cause, and extent of damage sustained. The surveyor may be asked to recommend options for repairs, review estimates or , determine the pre-loss value of a vessel. A vessel owner can request a surveyor for the same purposes.
​
RIGGING SURVEYS
-
For sailboats only, rigging surveys can be added on as part of a pre-purchase survey, or as a standalone inspection. Rigging surveys are often requested when the age of the standing rigging is unknown, or the vessel has been sailed relatively aggressive. Rigging surveys can also be requested by insurance companies for vessels that intent to sail offshore.
-
The surveyor will perform a detailed inspection of the standing rigging and provide recommendations relating to the condition of the rig and its components.
​
OIL ANALYSIS
-
This can give you a better understanding of an engine, transmission, or gearcase overall state of health / internal wear. We take a sample of the oil during or after the engines have been run and overnight it to an independent lab for a spectrometer analysis. You will then receive a detailed report by email that will have all the vital numbers of your oil sample, along with a reference point to compare to. The lab also provides a general statement regarding the oil sample and overall engine health.
​