Services

Savannah, GA • Jacksonville, FL • Charleston, SC

Your Local Accredited Marine Surveyor

Services - Introduction

The services I provide range from surveying Yachts and Small Craft to carrying out Cargo Surveys, Container Inspections, Hull & Machinery Surveys, and ISM/ISPS/ISM Audits.

I worked as a Yacht Captain/Engineer for over 40 years before completing a National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS) Apprentiship before accompanying a Cargo Surveyor to learn the fine points of Cargo Surveying.

I hold a Container Inpsector Certificate from the Institute of International Container Lessors.

I am a full-time Marine Surveyor, so I will give my full attention to you, the client, ensuring you receive a well-informed, easily read survey report. I am an ACCREDITED MARINE SURVEYOR and a member of NAMS. I have over 40 years of experience as a professional yacht captain/engineer. I have sailed multiple oceans and cruised in remote locations while maintaining all systems on the yachts I was captaining. I have overseen refits in shipyards worldwide and in the United States. Sometimes, things do not always go according to plan, but fully understanding engineering has allowed me to complete the tasks and each project.

I have undertaken a formal marine surveying apprenticeship with NAMS and have been mentored by some of the industry's most experienced surveyors. I hold a Master Yacht 3000t license from New Zealand and a Master 1600t license issued by the United States Coast Guard. Both qualifications required many years of sea time, months of classroom time, and days of exams.

I have attained a Diploma in Cargo Surveying and ISM, ISPS, and MLC Marine International Audit from Lloyd’s Marine Institute.

I am based in Savannah, GA, and offer my services between Jacksonville, FL, and Charleston, SC, including St. Simons, Brunswick, Darien, Richmond Hill, Thunderbolt, Tybee Island, Whitemarsh Island, Wilmington Island, Isle of Hope, Hilton Head, Beaufort, and Port Royal.

I am available 5 days per week and endeavor to provide a written survey report in PDF format within 24 hours of completing the vessel inspection. My survey reports will provide, among other things, relevant details of the vessel, Hull Identification Number, registration number, engine serial numbers, gearbox serial numbers, USCG requirements and deficiencies, electronic and electrical condition, structural integrity, engineering details, previous maintenance, cosmetic condition, general layout, observations, recommendations, overall condition, and Current Market Value. NAMS backs my survey reports.

The Services We Provide

Pre-Purchase Marine Survey

A pre-purchase survey is usually performed when an individual is considering purchasing a yacht and/or an owner is looking to sell their yacht.

This is our most detailed and in-depth examination. Systems and equipment are operated and proven. A sea trial is performed and a haul out for bottom and running gear examination is performed. A written report is issued complete with a list of equipment seen onboard along with a detailed list of deficiencies and recommendations. Replacement and current market values are assessed using comparable yacht sales in the current market. The majority of lenders and insurance companies require a pre-purchase survey prior to binding a contract.  

This survey can also assist a seller in evaluating what repairs and/or upgrades should be completed in order for the yacht to be placed on the market at a competitive price. Read More…

Condition and Valuation Survey

Condition & Valuation Surveys consist of visual examination and operational testing of yacht and systems, afloat or in dry dock. There is no trial run or haul out required, unless it is specifically requested.

This type of survey can serve as an official document stating the condition of the yacht, its identification numbers, compliance with applicable standards, the general condition of equipment seen onboard, and the fair market value. This type of survey is usually requested by the insurance company or a financial lending institution in regard to condition and value, however it can be used for other reasons, such as estate settlements and legal proceedings. Read More…

Container Inspections

Inspection of containers to comply with the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO). An ISO container inspection will access the structural integrity of a container, which will guarantee the durability of the container and the safety of any cargo transported.

Frequent inspections will ensure the safety of cargo transported, will keep costs down by detecting defects early and will help to maintain a good reputation for the shipping company.

Cargo Surveys

Cargo pre-loading survey and pre-shipment inspections.

Cargo loading and discharge.

Cargo damage.

Container Inspection.

Hull and Machinery Surveys

Hull and machinery surveys are inspections carried out on ships to ensure that the hull (the ship's main body) and its machinery are in good condition and meet safety standards. These surveys are typically conducted annually and thoroughly examine the ship's structure, equipment, and systems.

During the survey, a surveyor checks for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion and ensures all components function correctly. This includes examining the hull, deck, hatch covers, machinery, and other critical parts of the ship1. The goal is to identify and address any potential issues that could compromise the ship's safety and seaworthiness

Boat Handling Instruction

Become a more knowledgeable and confident boat captain with hands-on instruction using your boat at your ramp or marina. My hands-on instruction will provide valuable lessons that will give you the confidence to maneuver your boat, impressing your friends and family along the way. No more embarrassing situations approaching the dock or boat ramp.

Learn how to evaluate the effects of wind and tide on your boat as you approach the dock, and plan your maneuver with a thought to a plan B should things not proceed as you first thought. Understand the importance of instructing your friends/family on board so that they can assist in the docking procedure. Understanding the forces of wind and tide, having a docking plan in mind, and a crew ready to help is vital.

I’ve captained all sorts of boats, from 20-foot inflatables and walkarounds to large (180-foot) yachts. I approach every dock the same way, check the current, wind, dock structure, possible dangers, and dockside assistance, if any, and provide precise instructions for my crew. Should things not go according to plan, I have an emergency plan(Plan B) in place and know when to implement that plan. It’s better to pull back and have another try rather than crashing on the first try!

Damage Surveys

Damage Surveys are completed to determine and describe the nature, extent, and likely cause of damage to a yacht or other vessel. Insurance companies, owners, and managers often request damage surveys, which assist in settling insured damage claims and preparing detailed repair specifications.

Follow-up examinations are typically performed to document the repairs and other events related to the damage incident. We work with specialist engineers and investigators as needed to help resolve outstanding issues. Read More…

Consultancy, Repair, & Refit

We offer a variety of repair and refit-related services. We can expertly assist with preparing repair specifications and bid packages and following the repair project through completion. Read More…

Yacht and Boat Delivery Services

We offer delivery services, preparing a vessel for sea, moving it to the destination of choice, and ensuring it is fit for its intended use upon delivery. Read More…

Request a Quote

We’ll prepare a proposal and walk you through every step of the process.