PATH: HOME, GLOSSARY, WEBSITE INDEX, WEBSITE CONTENTS » ∨
∧ DO-IT-YOURSELF » DIY Boat Building & Repair, DIY Boat Inspections, DIY Schools & Classes »
∧ MEDIA w/Creator Directory » Product Documentation, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites »

---

PAGE CONTENTS:
The Need for Boat Inspections (Marine Surveys).
^ Buying & Selling Advice
^ Types of Marine Surveys.
Marine Surveyors.
^ Qualities and Qualifications of a Marine Surveyor.
^ General duties of a marine surveyor.
^ Types of marine surveyors.
^ How Do I Choose a Marine Surveyor?
Associations for Accrediting Marine Surveyors.
^ National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS).
^ Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS).
^ United States Surveyors Association (USSA).
^ Association of Certified Marine Surveyors (ACMS).
^ American Marine Surveyors Association (AMSA) – Out of Business
Other Organizations Related to Marine Surveying.
^ International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI).
Media: Articles, Books, Magazines, Documentation, Videos, Websites, etc.
Related EAB Webpages & Main Topic Pages with Links.
Visit our FEATURED ARTICLES Home Page! Thanks to our amazing contributors.
This Month’s Top 20 Most Popular Articles on our EAB website.
What our nonprofit Anchors Aweigh Academy and its EAB website have accomplished.
Members must SIGN IN to gain access to Members Only areas of this website.
Become an Academy Member and gain access to additional pages and programs!
Comments: Submit To ⇒ Comments♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace “♥” with “@”).

---

THIS ARTICLE IS STILL EVOLVING!
The page may contain rough drafts that include raw source materials.

DRAFT

The Need for Boat Inspections (Marine Surveys)

When there is a change in condition, custody, interest (e.g. ownership, financing, coverage), etc.

Acceptance
Construction, Certification
Pre-purchase
Finance
Insurance
Pre-Delivery, Trip, Crew
Cargo, Container
Damage, Loss
+

Warranty

---

Types of Marine Surveys

---

+

Pre-Sale Survey

Pre-Purchase Survey

Pre-Delivery Survey

Condition and Valuation Survey

Appraisal Survey

Structural Survey (Hull Survey)

Hull Thickness Survey (Audio Gauging)

FLIR Survey (Heat loss, Electrical overheating, Moisture content)

Moisture Survey

Engine Survey (Machinery Survey)

Galvanic Corrosion Survey

Electrical Survey

Trip Survey

Crew Survey

Damage/Loss Survey

Commercial Surveys:

^ Commercial Fishing Boat Survey

^ Cargo Survey

^ Load Survey

---

Research/Resource Materials:

---

Types of Marine Surveys From marinesurvey.org (SAMS)

Marine Surveys are performed for a number of reasons, and the procedures for each vary to best suit your needs.

Pre-Purchase Survey: This is the most comprehensive type of inspection, and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. Condition and overall operation of the vessel should be examined. This covers structural integrity, electrical systems, the propulsion system, the fuel system, other machinery, navigation equipment, miscellaneous on-board systems, cosmetic appearance, electronics, and overall maintenance as well as an out-of-water inspection and a sea trial.

Insurance Survey: This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. They are interested in structural integrity and safety for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on older boats. They will also want to know the vessel’s fair market value.

Appraisal Inspection: This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations and legal cases.

Damage Inspection: The surveyor can be retained by an insurance company to determine the cause of a loss and determine the extent of loss related damage and may be asked to recommend repairs, review estimates, and determine the pre-loss value of a vessel.  A vessel owner can retain a surveyor for the same purposes, but for the owner’s behalf.

---

Types of Marine Surveys From promarinesurveys.com – Retired

Pre-Purchase – Condition and Value
This is the most comprehensive type of inspection and is strongly advised before agreeing to purchase any used vessel. Many Insurance companies will normally not provide Boat Insurance for used boats without a current marine survey. Many clients also request a Pre-Purchase Condition & Value survey when they want to sell their boat so they can find and correct any known problems before listing the vessel for sale. The condition and overall operation of the entire vessel is thoroughly inspected including such items as structural integrity including the bottom and underwater machinery (if hauled), the superstructure, electrical systems, propulsion and fuel systems, steering, navigation and miscellaneous on-board systems like generators and air conditioning units, electronics, safety gear and interior portions accessed in a non-destructive manner. Moisture and/or delamination checks are made on the vessels hull, top deck and stringers.
The final report will reference compliance with United States Code of Federal Regulations, US Coast Guard, American Boat and Yacht Council and National Fire Protection Association standards. All recommendations are clearly defined. Fair market value, replacement cost and general remarks regarding the overall condition of the vessel are always included.
NOTE: It should be noted that it is highly recommended that the vessel be hauled out for complete bottom and underwater machinery inspection. The haul out yard charges are separate and not a part of the survey fees.

Insurance – Condition and Value
The Insurance Condition & Value survey is for current owners who have changed Insurance Companies or have been requested by their Insurance Co to obtain a current Marine Survey. This inspection is necessary for the insurance company to determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. They are interested in parts of the vessel related to structural integrity, safety and suitability for its intended use. High-risk systems related to fuel, ventilation, exhaust, and steering are some examples of inspected areas. Electronics are noted with serial no’s if available but are not tested for insurance surveys. A sea trial normally is not required and the report is very similar to the pre-purchase condition and value survey. Most insurance companies require a survey on older boats and will also want to know the vessels fair market value and replacement cost.

You should check with your insurance company as many insurance companies will request a haul out to have the bottom and underwater machinery inspected. The haul out yard charges are separate and not a part of the survey fees.

This type of survey should not be misconstrued as being a more detailed buyer’s pre-purchase condition survey and is not intended to be assumed as such.

Yacht Appraisal Inspection

An appraisal is an inspection to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations and legal cases. The equipment on board, general maintenance, overall condition, same vessel selling prices and the current economy are all considered when determining the fair market value.

Damage Survey

A damage inspection is performed for an Insurance Company to assess the extent of damage to the vessel, recommend repairs, assess estimated repair costs and if requested, the probable cause.

---

Types Of Surveys From SeasideMarineSurveyors.com

As a used boat buyer, you need to know what you are buying before you make one of the largest purchases of your lifetime. We strive to uncover any structural or mechanical aspects of the vessel that may lead to unforeseen costly repairs and safety risks. Surveys are undertaken on new and used boats. Surveys are a valuable tool in determining condition, fair market value, and overall condition of the vessel. Banks may require a survey to determine fair market value for financing and insurance companies will require a survey to determine underwriting decisions and damage repairs. An individual should request a survey to find out more about the particular vessel you are purchasing.

Pre purchase Survey: This is the most comprehensive inspection of a vessel. The purpose of the survey is to gather as much information about the condition of the vessel before purchase. The survey will consist of an inspection of the topsides, hull, cabin and interior that are normally accessible. A haul out and inspection of the bottom and underwater machinery. An examination of the visible structural supports of the vessel. A complete inspection of the electronics, fuel system, steering, electrical system, sanitation system and safety equipment to ascertain their operation. A sea trial is conducted to evaluate the overall performance of the vessel. An examination of all vessel documentation, hull numbers, and the history of service records when available. A current market valuation and replacement valuation of the vessel will also be given.

The Condition and Valuation Survey:  (Insurance Survey)  This survey is meant to be a general overview of the vessel and its systems for insurance underwriting and financing. This type of survey is intended for use by insurance and finance companies to determine the underwriting decision of a particular vessel. This survey will not approach the level of a pre purchase survey. The primary focus is to identify the vessel, its equipment, overall condition and general value without testing full system operation. It also seeks to identify hazardous conditions that pose a safety risk to the vessel and its passengers. An assessment of vessel safety equipment as per the U.S.C.G. Federal requirements are stated.

The Appraisal Survey: Is performed to gather information to justify and determine the fair market of the vessel. This survey may be used in refinancing or to settle legal claims, an estate case or a non-profit donation to charity. The focus of this survey is limited to setting a fair market value based on the vessel systems and overall condition.

Sea Trial: Is a comprehensive bay test to determine the positive operation of the vessels machinery, systems, and structure. On the sea trial, not only is the engine and overall vessel performance evaluated, but also we check the steering, controls, shafting, engine mounts and exhaust systems. We also examine structural elements of the hull while under load. On gas engines, we perform a rudimentary engine inspection. What this means is that we performance test the engines along with a complete visual inspection. While this may not seem like much, you can learn a lot just by observing the engines operating condition. We check for oil leaks, coolant leaks, and fuel leaks. We also check that all belts and hoses are performing properly and not frayed or leaking. We also check to see if the engine is turning the recommended RPMs and is running within the manufacturers specifications. If an engine is not performing properly or a problem is indicated, a repair recommendation will be made, or you will be advised to consult a manufacturers certified mechanic for further diagnosis. When it comes to diesel-powered vessels, diesel engines are more complex and the vessels usually larger. We will performance test and visually inspect small diesels or single engine boats in cases where the engines are fairly new. But for older and larger engines, a full diesel engine survey is highly recommended. Yes, the cost is substantial, but so are repair costs. Repair costs on diesels typically run 4 times that of gas engines. After looking at the engines, we may advise you that an engine survey is necessary. Therefore, it is highly recommended that an independent diesel surveyor be engaged for full diesel surveys.

Compression Testing: All used 2 stroke outboards will benefit from a compression test due to their extreme operation conditions with the potential for ring failure. A large variation in compression values will indicate a potential problem if not already seen in its running condition. Four stroke engines, will usually only need to be tested if a problem in the running condition is observed. But bear in mind that the ability to perform compression tests depends on a variety of factors, such as the ability to reach and get the spark plugs out. Plus we have to deal with gasoline and the dangers of explosions. Therefore, we will be unable to advise you whether we can perform a compression test until we have actually seen the vessel. Compression testing of outboard motors is not a problem and we can do this in most any case. Without proper compression, the engine will not run properly. The surveyor will make a recommendation if we fell that this is needed.

Lower Unit Pressure Testing: This test will indicate faulty seals in both the upper and lower half of the gear case. If water is allowed to enter the case, this will cause excessive friction on the gears and engine. If the water is not detected, this can lead to expensive gear case repair bills. This test is done by draining the oil from the case and then using a vacuum and pressure gauge to determine if the seals will hold pressure and keep the water out. This test can be used on outboard motors and all stern drives.

Spectro Metric Oil Analysis: Is an engine oil test, used to determine if excess engine wear is occurring, based on the different types of metal particles found in the oil. This is not quite as valuable a diagnostic tool as many people have been lead to believe. To do an analysis of wear metals, one first needs to know how long the engine oil has been in service, but this is something we almost never know. The main benefits of an oil analysis are that it can determine if there is salt, water or antifreeze in the oil. As a tool for determining internal wear, it is basically only useful when conditions of extreme wear are present. Very often, we get no indication of what it is that is wearing excessively. After the samples are obtained, they then have to be sent to a lab service. It usually takes 5-7 days before obtaining the results.

Osmosis Testing: Is a test used to determine if excess moisture is present in areas of the hull that are not visible to the eye. Moisture can be present without delamination occurring and this can pin- point potential problem areas. This type of testing may be undertaken on a vessel that shows signs of moisture intrusion around fittings, blisters, or soft spots in the transom stringers and bulkheads. However, this test is not an infallible way to test for moist areas. Many variables come into play when using a moisture meter. These include delamination, bottom paint, voids in the lay-up of mat and resin, water in the bildge, and the length of time the boat has been out of the water. The meter may detect moisture that can only be verified by destructive testing of the hull to verify the meter readings.

Corrosion Analysis: We can test your boat for proper bonding and adequate zinc anode protection. We can also check for stray current corrosion. Corrosion is a serious problem, and if left unchecked can deteriorate submerged metal fittings like props, lower units, and thru-hulls in a matter of days.

A vessel has many systems that require maintenance and care. A careful visual inspection of the accessible components can help determine if the vessel has received proper maintenance or has been neglected. A marine survey inspection of your boat may include many of these areas or more.
1. The exterior hull condition
2. The interior bilge condition
3. Bulkheads and stringer condition
4. Top decks and hardware
5. Thru-hull fittings condition and operation
6. Electrical system operation
7. Plumbing system condition
8. Engine and drive systems operational
9. Generator operational
10. HVAC system operational
11. Electronics operational
12. Sea trials to determine if the engine operates within the manufacturers specifications
In addition to these items, there is a host of many other systems and appurtenances that are unique to each vessel and may need inspection.
Many Insurance companies and banks require a marine survey to identify the vessels value and ensure its compliance with various safety guidelines as specified by ABYC, NFPA and Coast Guard regulations before issuing an insurance policy, or financing.
From: http://www.seasidemarinesurveyors.com/
http://www.seasidemarinesurveyors.com/page4.html

---

Types of Marine Surveys From ChapmanMarineSurveyor.com

PRE-PURCHASE: Full condition/value survey inspections, normally in and out of water including a sea trial of vessel intended to be purchased by someone, whether from an individual or through a yacht broker.  This is the most intensive, detailed inspection and intended to find any discrepancy in structure, electrical, plumbing, machinery and equipment and the cost to correct them that must be considered by the buyer before making the final decision to complete the purchase.  A full written report with photos, or a photo CD, is normally submitted within a few days of the completion of the survey inspection, which can be used for insurance as well.  This type of survey is usually paid for by the buyer on the day of survey, just like payment to the boat yard for any fees to haul & launch the vessel for bottom inspection.  Pre-payment is required when the buyer won’t be present for the survey.

INSURANCE: These are detailed inspections for a vessel’s owner that his/her insurance carrier requested to determine the vessel’s value, risk and insurability. Less concerned with cosmetics and small details than a pre-purchase survey and primarily concerned with safety and structural and machinery integrity that affect the risk to the insurance carrier.  An out-of-water inspection may be required.  A written report with photos, or a photo CD, is normally submitted within a few days of the completion of the survey inspection.  This type of survey is also usually paid for by the owner on the day of survey, or prepaid if he/she will not be present at the survey.  (Note that when the vessel has just had a pre-purchase survey, that report will usually be satisfactory for the insurance carrier as well and this type of survey won’t be needed in addition to it.  Also note that our surveys have never been refused by any insurance company, but if that should ever happen have your insurer check out the brief resume on the About Us page on this website, or a formal resume can be provided if necessary to verify acceptability of our qualifications.)

APPRAISAL: These inspections are intended to determine a vessel’s general as-is condition (not a full survey) and value and could be for re-financing, import duty, or just to help an intended buyer (especially one out-of-town responding to an ad) with a “walk-through” inspection and report with photo CD or video on DVD to decide whether to go ahead with a full survey/sea trial before buying.  Usually paid for by the requestor on the day of appraisal, or prepaid if he/she won’t be present.

FINANCE: These inspections are often requested by a bank or finance company to determine a vessel’s general as-is condition (again, not a full survey) and value and whether it’s worth financing, or re-financing.  A written report with photos, or a photo CD, is normally submitted within a few days of the completion of the inspection.  Check first as this may, or may not be paid for by the financial institution.

DAMAGE: These inspections are requested by the insurance carrier normally, but sometimes by owner, as a result of some accident, theft or storm damage to the vessel.  A written report with photos, or a photo CD, is normally submitted within a few days of the completion of the damage inspection.  This type of inspection is normally paid for by the insurance carrier, but can also be paid for by the vessel’s owner if it’s for minor damage and not being done in regard to an insurance claim.

CONSULTATION: This is a “specific concern inspection/consultation“, which is often requested by a vessel’s owner to determine the cause of and how to correct some problem(s) that are beyond his/her area of expertise.  A written report with photos, or a photo CD, may or may not be submitted after the completion of the consultation, depending on the prior arrangements (i.e., in some cases only a verbal report is required).  This type is usually paid for by the owner on the day of the consultation.

---

Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

---

From BoatUS
Buying & Selling Advice

Determining Condition And Value

No one wants to overpay for a boat, so how can you get a good idea of its worth.

Be an educated consumer and have a surveyor look over any boat you’re considering purchasing — new or used.

For popular production boats, there are a few places that can help. Websites like NADAguides and BUCValu list values of hundreds of models.

Keep in mind that estimates from any service presume clean boats typically and appropriately equipped with everything in proper working order. For boats with limited resale activity, reliable valuations can’t be developed until a model and year’s production has been circulating for at least three years. And remember that no one can give you an accurate value of a boat sight unseen; that requires the knowledge of an experienced marine surveyor, who spends some hands-on time on the boat. Less popular and custom boats will also need to have a qualified marine surveyor appraise them. For boats that don’t require a survey, online websites can help give you a sense of the value. And don’t assume asking price — there’s usually room for negotiation.

Determining Condition
If you’re buying a jon boat or canoe, a visual inspection is probably enough to determine the overall condition of the boat, but few of us are expert enough to know about all the systems in a larger boat. Fortunately, there are professionals called “marine surveyors” who are experts. If you’re going to spend a few thousand dollars or more on a boat, you need to hire one; it could be the most important buying decision you’ll make.

A marine survey, which can be a couple of dozen pages long, is a snapshot of the condition and valuation of a boat on a specific day. Think of it this way: Buyers and sellers can speak for themselves, but an independent marine survey speaks for the boat. Because of its depth of information, it has several uses: It’s designed to give a potential buyer a clear picture of the condition of the boat with respect to U.S. Coast Guard regulations and nationally recognized standards, to provide a fair market value for the boat, and to document any potentially dangerous deficiencies in the boat’s systems.

A marine survey is also a useful tool for buyers when negotiating price based on what repairs or upgrades the boat needs. And finally, insurance and lending companies that need to know the true condition and fair market value of a vessel often require it. Insurance underwriters carefully read through a marine survey to determine whether the vessel is a good risk, and they may require an owner to address certain deficiencies.

Download the BoatUS Buyers Guide PDF to read this article and the entire guide.

Get The Right Surveyor
You wouldn’t hire a plumber to rewire your house; the same goes for surveyors. Finding a qualified marine surveyor or a specialist is a matter of knowing where to look.

Marine surveyors are not regulated or licensed, so virtually anyone can call him- or herself a surveyor, and many unqualified people do. A good indicator of competence is a surveyor who has professional affiliations with the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), plus either the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS) or the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS).

Choose a surveyor who is familiar with the type of boat you’re interested in. Some specialize in power, some in sail, others in wooden or metal boats. Never hire a marine surveyor referred to you by the seller or broker! A surveyor should have absolutely no affiliation with boat brokers, dealers, boat-repair shops, or others whose living depends on the sale or repair of boats — especially the one you’re about to buy. Make sure the surveyor you hire is one you find yourself or through a recommendation — never one recommended by the seller or broker.

There are three main types of surveys done on a boat you’re considering buying, and each requires special training to do them well. Sometimes one surveyor can do everything, but sometimes you may have to hire more than one.

Get The Right Survey
A condition and valuation survey (C&V) covers the hull and structures as well as the boat’s systems. This type of thorough survey is usually required for insurance and financing; it’s sometimes referred to as a “prepurchase survey.” Whether your insurance company or lender requires it or not, BoatUS recommends always getting one before buying.

A proper C&V survey requires the boat to be hauled so the hull and underwater gear can be inspected. Good surveyors inspect a boat top to bottom, fore and aft. They’ll look at the hull and deck and determine by sounding with a hammer and moisture meter whether there are voids or delamination, and they can identify places in the core that may eventually rot and become soft (and expensive to repair) before they’re detectable by a buyer. A surveyor checks the condition of AC and DC electrical systems, plumbing and thru-hull fittings, deck hardware, propane and fuel systems, steering and controls, and safety equipment.

A proper marine survey will be an in-depth written report that evaluates the boat according to U.S. Coast Guard regulations as well as ABYC and National Fire Protection Association standards. A knowledgeable surveyor will also know if a specific make has a history of major problems. Don’t rely on a survey prepared for a previous owner, even if it was done recently. A boat could have suffered damage since the last survey.

Engine surveys cover the operation and condition of propulsion and generator engines. Typically they include inspection of controls, electrical, cooling, and exhaust systems, as well as engine mounts. Compression, engine, and exhaust temperatures are also checked, and engine surveys typically include tests of oil samples, too.

But how do you know if you need one? Alison Mazon, a surveyor in Portland, Oregon, is one of a handful of hull surveyors who also does engine surveys. “An engine survey is warranted for particularly expensive or complex engines, and those with obvious lack of maintenance,” says Mazon. “Many larger engines built since about 2006 have computers that can be read by trained personnel with the right equipment. A quick scan for computer faults may be a sign a more detailed analysis is needed.”

A rigging survey looks at the condition of a sailboat’s mast and boom and associated rigging. Inspections are made of attachment points, welds, standing and running rigging, and the mast step. Rigging surveyors either go up the mast or inspect the rig when it’s off the boat. Whether a rigging survey is needed depends on the age, prior use of the rig, and its intended purpose.

Red flags that would signal the need for a rigging survey include a rig more than 10 years old, frayed stays, cracked swages, weeping chainplates, and turnbuckles that are bottomed out. The rig also needs to be surveyed if the boat will be used offshore or heavily raced.

Here’s what a good survey provides:

• The condition of the boat and its equipment. A marine survey determines the condition of the boat’s visible components and accessible structures at the time of the inspection. A survey provides a list of deficiencies as well as needed repairs and focuses on safety. Deficiencies in a survey can be used to renegotiate the sales price or scrap the deal altogether if needed repairs are too expensive or complicated.
• The value of the boat. Surveyors use pricing guides along with their vast experience in valuing boats. A seller or broker may think a boat has a specific worth, but until a survey is performed, those figures are only guesses. Banks and insurance companies use the survey value to determine loan and insurance hull value amounts. This is also a great tool for price negotiations and can easily pay for the cost of the survey.
• A budget for repairs and maintenance. Nearly any boat will have some defects and deficiencies. Knowing what they are beforehand makes it easier to know how much to budget for the future. Surveys typically provide a prioritized list of recommended repairs. The most important ones are critical to safety, and usually your insurance company will require them to be completed. The rest are things that can be done as you find time and money.

Just about every boat will have some issues, but a good survey will help you create a budget for repairs and maintenance before you make the purchase.

Survey Recommendations
Recommendations are just that — issues the surveyor found on the boat that may need to be addressed. It’s the “may” part that’s important here. Typically, a surveyor will list recommendations in order of importance, often as A, B, or C.

A-List Examples
A-list recommendations (more properly called “must-dos”) are the most important ones. You can be sure your insurance company will require them — not just for your boat, but for the safety of you and your crew. These are issues that, unaddressed, can cause your boat to sink, burn, become involved in an accident, or cause serious injury. Even if you’re not financing or insuring a boat, these recommendations need to be addressed before the boat is used:

• Worn or damaged below-waterline hoses, seacocks, and thru-hull fittings that pose a sinking hazard
• AC or DC wiring deficiencies that could cause a fire
  Lack of or nonfunctioning Coast Guard-required equipment, such as fire extinguishers, flares, or navigation lights
• Propane system deficiencies that could cause an explosion
• A vessel with too much horsepower that could make it unstable
• Lack of operable carbon-monoxide alarms
• Unsecured batteries or fuel tanks that could break loose and damage the hull, or cause a fire
• Missing oil-spill and waste-management placards. These are required by law and will be checked during a Coast Guard inspection

B-List Recommendations
These tend to include either (1) items that are not an immediate risk but will pose an unacceptable hazard if left uncorrected for too long or (2) things that may enhance the safety, value, and enjoyment of your boat. Some of these may cross over into A-list recommendations as far as underwriters are concerned and may also need to be addressed before your boat can be insured. For the most part, they’re things you’ll want to do, anyway. Here are some examples:

• Hoses and wires that are chafing or not installed to ABYC standards
• Worn cutless or rudder bearings
• Stiff or corroded steering or control cables
• Engine maintenance needed to forestall a larger problem
• Cleats or stanchions that need to be rebedded to prevent deck-core rot
• Heavy corrosion on fuel or water tanks

C-List Recommendations
The C-list generally includes normal upkeep items that should be addressed as you can.

Examples include:

• water leaks through ports or hatches,
• anodes in need of replacement,
• loose or worn engine belts, hoses, and engine mounts,
• cosmetic issues, and
• winches in need of service.

Keep in mind that while surveyors inspect a boat with an eye toward industry safety standards, such as those written by ABYC, they recognize that newer standards were not in place when older boats were built. But some of those standards, like the need for carbon-monoxide alarms or proper wiring, are critical enough that insurance underwriters may still require boats to comply with them.

All of the recommendations can be used as negotiation points for buyers. Any purchase contract should specify that a sale may be voided if the survey results are unacceptable to the buyer. In some cases, a seller may choose to do the required repairs before a sale, but make sure the boat is reinspected before the sale is finalized. Typically, surveyors will reinspect specific items for a fee once the sale is made and sign off that they have been properly done.

If, after the sale, the buyer chooses to make the repairs him- or herself, insurance coverage can begin immediately while the repairs are in progress. But either way, the insurance company will usually require proof — a written statement from the owner or yard bills — to confirm the recommendations have been completed correctly.

Attend The Survey Inspection
A good surveyor welcomes prospective buyers to be present at the survey. There’s no better way to learn about your new boat than watching a professional methodically dig through it. The surveyor’s notes will be more meaningful if he’s able to discuss with you what he’s examining. He’ll also answer questions that might not be significant enough to be included in the written report, and can tell you about problems he’s seen on similar boats that you can watch out for.

From BoatUS.

---

Marine Surveyors

A Marine surveyor (including “Yacht & Small Craft Surveyor”, “Hull & Machinery Surveyor” and/or “Cargo Surveyor”) is a person who conducts inspections, surveys or examinations of marine vessels to assess, monitor and report on their condition and the products on them, as well as inspects damage caused to both vessels and cargo. Marine surveyors also inspect equipment intended for new or existing vessels to ensure compliance with various standards or specifications. Marine surveys typically include the structure, machinery and equipment (navigational, safety, radio, etc.) and general condition of a vessel and/or cargo. It also includes judging materials on board and their condition. Because certifications and subsequently payments are processed only after the surveyor has expressed his or her satisfaction, a marine surveyor holds a prestigious position and is held with much regard in the shipbuilding industry. Marine Surveyors are highly qualified and technically sound and are usually selected after thorough evaluation procedures as vessels ranging from small ferries to enormous crude oil carriers and cruise liners are approved to sail into the high seas based purely on their judgement, competence and integrity.

Marine surveying is often closely associated with marine insurance, damage and salvage, accident and fraud investigation as insurers generally lack the training and skills required to perform a detailed assessment of the condition of a vessel. While marine surveyors are sometimes employed by insurers directly they maintain a certain professional autonomy in order to provide an unbiased view. Independent marine surveyors are often employed by the clients of marine insurers to provide evidence in support of damage claims made against the insurer. Insurance companies cannot require customers to use specific marine surveyors (although they often provide a list of recommended or pre-approved marine surveyors who are known to them).

Marine surveyors use many credentials, letters, and terms such as “accredited”, “certified”, “qualified”, ” ACMS”, “AMS”, “CMS”, etc. There are many ways to train to become a marine surveyor including taking correspondence courses, apprenticing, or simply opening a business. However, marine surveyors pursue their profession independently of required organizations, and there is currently no national or international licensing requirement for marine surveyors. The U.S. Coast Guard does not approve or certify marine surveyors. All association terms and initials represent training and certification by private organizations.

Qualities and Qualifications of a Marine Surveyor

Qualifications for a Marine Surveyor, though the list is long, can be summed up in the following: Working knowledge of ship’s electrical & mechanical systems, fundamental understanding of boat design & construction, and one of the most important; Time spend at sea.

When it comes to defining the qualities and qualifications of a Marine Surveyor, a memorandum of 1834 has not been bettered:

“The utmost care and discrimination have been exercised by the Committee in the selection of men [and women] of talent, integrity, and firmness as Surveyors, on whom the practical efficacy of the system and the contemplated advantages must so materially depend; the Committee have in their judgement appointed those persons only…who appeared to them to be most competent to discharge the important duties of their situations with fidelity and ability, and to ensure strict and impartial justice to all parties whose property shall come under their supervision.”

Brooklyn Museum – Eight Bells – Winslow Homer – overall
– CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES – their key role – IACS

General duties of a marine surveyor

A marine surveyor may perform the following tasks:

• Conduct surveys throughout the ship’s life (building new ship, annual survey, interim survey, special survey) to ensure standards are maintained;
• Perform inspections required by domestic statutes and international conventions by the International Maritime Organization (IMO);
• Witness tests and operation of emergency and safety machinery and equipment;
• Measure ships for tonnage and survey them for load line assignment;
• Attend court as an expert witness and assist in coroner’s inquiries;
• Investigate marine accidents.
• Determine “Fair Market Value, “Damage Repair Costs”, and Replacement Value”.

Types of marine surveyors

Government surveyor
A government surveyor performs ship registration surveys, surveys of foreign-going ships and local craft, and generally enforces ship safety standards to insure marine industrial safety. Government-appointed marine surveyors, also called marine inspectors in some countries, belong to two groups that are not mutually exclusive: Flag State surveyors report to the government with whom the vessel is registered, and Port State surveyors report to the government into whose territory the vessel has entered. The Port State surveyors usually have the authority to detain vessels considered to have defects that may result in adverse impacts on life or the environment. Based on their government’s legal framework, Flag State surveyors can impose conditions on the vessel such that failure to comply will result in the registration of the vessel being suspended or withdrawn. In this event, the vessel will find it almost impossible to trade.

Cargo surveyor
A Cargo surveyor is normally appointed by the Cargo Owner , mostly for Bulk . Grain Cargo. His job is to perform the draft survey to determine the actual cargo loaded on board. He also confirms that the cargo loading is performed according to the law and is within the loadable limits The vessel safety is also ascertain which include momentum involves due to cargo shift which may render the vessel unsafe during the passage.

Classification surveyor
A classification surveyor inspects ships to make sure that the ship, its components and machinery are built and maintained according to the standards required for their class. Classification surveyors often have two roles: one is as a representative of the classification society; and the other as an inspector on behalf of the country with which the vessel is registered (the flag state). The classification role is to ensure that during construction the vessel initially complies with the classification society’s rules for construction and outfitting, and thereafter is maintained fit to proceed trading. The Flag State role is based on a clear set of guidelines issued by the registering country. On satisfactory completion of any survey, the classification surveyor makes recommendations to the classification society and/or the flag state. These may be that the vessel has a clean bill of health, or that various defects must be corrected within a given time.

Increasingly, both government and classification surveyors are becoming involved in confirming compliance with international treaties associated with such things as pollution, international security, and safety management schemes. They may also examine cargo gear to ensure that it meets various requirements or regulations. Government and classification surveyors are usually marine professionals mariners, such as a qualified ship’s master, engineer, naval architect or radio officer.

Private surveyor
A private marine surveyor may be asked to carry out a wide range of tasks, including examining ships’ cargoes or onboard conditions such as fuel quality; investigating accidents at sea (e.g., oil spillages or failure of machinery or structures which are not considered to be critical); and preparing accident reports for insurance purposes, and conducting draught surveys to analyse how much cargo has been lost or gained.

Private surveyors also carry out condition surveys or pre-purchase surveys to determine the condition of the ship prior to charter or an acquisition. Many companies as P&I clubs, ship-owners, brokers, etc. employ or contract the services of a private marine surveyor in order to determine the condition of the ship.

Many traditional companies conduct private surveys. Examples include International Registries of Shipping, Iamsa Bureau of Shipping, Lloyd Registers, Lloyd’s Agency Network, ANCO, Global Maritime, Bul Mar Prof, DNV, NKK, LOC and others.

Yacht and small craft surveyor
Yacht and small craft (Y&SC) surveyors specialize in inspecting smaller vessels that are most often used for pleasure boating (both power and sail). Y&SC surveyors may be employed directly by larger marine insurance companies, but most often they are independent practitioners. Since using boats for pleasure (or “yachting”) is a relatively recent phenomena, having only been widely practiced for the last century or so, Y&SC surveying has many unique aspects that are not shared with the more traditional forms of marine surveying described above.

Marine surveyor training
There are very few institutions providing education and training in this important field. The International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) UK is one of them. IIMS provides Diploma, BTEC HNC and HND level courses by distance learning that are awarded by Pearson edexcel.[1] The IIMS membership consists of marine surveyors, cargo surveyors, yacht and small craft surveyors and other professionals in the field. Suny Maritime College provides online survey classes in Cargo, Hull and Yacht and small craft In Australia The Australasian Institute of Marine surveyors has the first accredited course under the Mar 13 training package which meets the requirements for AMSA Accreditation http://www.aimsurveyors.com.au/. The offer Certificate 4 to Diploma level qualifications.

See also
Nautical portal
US Surveyors Association
Association of certified marine surveyors
National Association of Marine Surveyors
Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors
Navtech Marine Surveyor Education US Surveyors Association
Vessel safety survey
Association of Certified Marine Surveyors
Yacht Designers and Surveyors Association YDSA

References
Jump up^ Marine Surveying Courses
Further reading
American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
Yacht Survey Asia
International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS)
National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMSGlobal)
Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS)
Yacht Designers and Surveyors Association (YDSA)
Marine Administration Blog
International Association of Marine Surveyors & Auditors (IAMSA)
Survey & certification(MARSS)
Lloyd’s Agency Network
Complete Marine
US Surveyors Association Master Marine Surveyors
ACMS-WORLDWIDE.ORG

From Wikipedia.

---

How Do I Choose a Marine Surveyor?

Anyone can title him or herself as a Marine Surveyor and start a business. Certain marine surveyors are permitted to use a designation denoting membership in accrediting organizations that require members to meet strict professional, technical and ethical standards.

Surveyors should provide you with a professionally prepared report that can be accepted by your bank and/or insurance company. Talk with prospective surveyors and ask questions! What does the survey include and what type of reporting format is used? Do they use ABYC, NFPA and USCG standards in their surveys? How much will the inspection cost? How long will the on-board inspection take?

A thorough inspection will not be rushed and will depend on the type of survey required based on vessel size, equipment and on-board systems. There may be additional services available such as engine surveys, oil analysis, galvanic and stray current corrosion testing, ultrasonic testing, moisture testing and other non-destructive tests. There may be additional charges for these and other services.

Well conducted surveys can provide good information on the vessels’ condition, but they are not guarantees. The surveyor reports the condition in accessible areas only as it exists at the time of inspection.

Why should you have a vessel surveyed? Most insurance companies and banks will require them on older vessels. They will need to know her condition and fair market value in order to finance and/or underwrite the vessel. Knowing her condition and fair market value before you purchase is also important. However, the most important reason to survey your vessel is for the safety of the passengers and crew.

From www.marinesurvey.org (SAMS)

---

Associations for Accrediting Marine Surveyors

---

NAMS (National Association of Marine Surveyors)

The National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMSGlobal), established in 1962, is a professional organization that certifies marine surveyors and provides continuing education opportunities.

NAMSGlobal’s membership is international and its Certified Marine Surveyor members carry the NAMS-CMS designation after their names.

From pleasure boats & yachts to commercial ships, NAMSGlobal marine surveyor members survey new and used vessels to determine their condition and value. NAMSGlobal surveyor members also survey cargo, machinery, docks, wharfs, marinas, and handling equipment related to the marine industry.

Additionally, NAMSGlobal marine surveyor members investigate marine claims and act as expert trial witnesses.

The National Association of Marine Surveyors, Inc.
P.O. Box 9306
Chesapeake, Virginia 23321-9306 USA
For delivery or courier service:
3105 American Legion Road – Suite E
Chesapeake, Virginia 23321-5654 USA
Toll Free: 1-800-822-6267
Telephone: (757) 638-9638
Fax Line: 757-638-9639
Website: www.namsglobal.org
E-mail: office#namsglobal.org

---

SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors)

The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® has its roots in the International Maritime Technical Institute Conference held in Brunswick, Maine during the latter part of 1986. Most of the participants expressed a desire to belong to a professional society of Marine Surveyors who would have a different purpose and outlook than found in the existing professional organizations of the day. Among the participants were the late Jim Robbins of C.A. Hansen Corporation and the late Fred Lowe, formerly, Instructor of Marine Surveying at the Chapman School of Seamanship, Stuart, Florida.

Jim Robbins and Fred Lowe founded the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® during the early part of 1987 and enlisted the late Michael Strocchi of Strocchi & Co. to join them on the original Board of Directors. A carefully chosen cadre of fifty (50) Charter Members was solicited to be the foundation of the organization. Over the next 18 months and three national meetings, the organization of SAMS® was put into place. The Society headquarters was moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where it continues to provide services to its members.

SAMS® is intended to be an organization of Professional Marine Surveyors who have come together to promote the good image and general well being of their chosen profession. Accredited Marine Surveyor® members are surveyors who have accumulated time in the profession, and have proven the technical skills necessary for designation as AMS®. There is, through the Surveyor Associate program, the opportunity for less experienced members to participate in SAMS® and hone their skills under the tutelage of Accredited Marine Surveyors® in their local area. Affiliate members, who benefit from the association with the Society’s members, are professionals, corporations, and organizations active in the marine field.

Accredited Marine Surveyors® are expected to follow a course of continuing education to maintain their accreditation. Members are guided by a code of ethics and are encouraged to participate in other organizations relative to the marine field.

SAMS® intends a controlled growth. Our organization is actively seeking skilled professionals who have a need to achieve and maintain a standard of excellence in their profession.

The acceptance of and the responsibility for satisfactory performance of assignments rests solely with the individual member. Neither the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® Inc., nor any of its officers, directors, committee chairpersons nor employees assume any responsibility concerning misrepresentations, errors in judgment or negligence on a part of an individual member of the Society.

Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors, Inc.
7855 Argyle Forest Blvd – Suite 203
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Toll-Free: 1-800-344-9077
Local: 904-384-1494
Fax Line: 904-388-3958
Website: www.marinesurvey.org
E-mail: samshq#marinesurvey.org

---

USSA (US Surveyors Association) NAVTECH

Founded in 1987, NAVTECH and US Surveyors Association have been providing up-to-date, accurate, quality marine surveyor education to marine professionals at all levels – worldwide!

NAVTECH – US SURVEYORS ASSOCIATION – US CAPTAIN
13430 McGregor Blvd.
Ft. Myers, Florida 33919
Toll Free:  1-800-245-4425
Website: www.navsurvey.com
Email:  navsurvey#aol.com

---

ACMS (Association of Certified Marine Surveyors)

ACMS (The Association of Certified Marine Surveyors) is an organization dedicated to furthering and enhancing the marine surveying trade through communication, cooperation between individuals, and the offering of the latest technical education and support.

ACMS was founded in the 90’s, acquired a group of topnotch marine surveyors, and was then chartered. Our mission is to provide the tools required to grant credentials to marine surveyors who have proven their knowledge and expertise of the marine surveyor trade. We offer Marine Surveyors who are certified or accredited a viable organization with reasonable annual dues. We offer Marine Surveyors who are not yet certified an opportunity to advance through our requirements procedure to certification.

Our members keep up to date with new technology, rule changes, and changes in the trade via our weekly e-mail communications to  each member, and by participating in the “on line” study modules that are always available.

Our diverse group is comprised of men and women with expertise in the following areas:
Yachts and small craft, commercial vessels, cargo and shipping, tow boat and barge inspectors, draft surveyors, marine architects, imported food inspectors, cargo and shipping container surveyor, claims and damage investigation, and expert witnesses.

Association of Certified Marine Surveyors, Inc.
19 Nooseneck Hill Road
West Greenwich, RI 02817, USA
Telephone: (401) 397-1888
Website: www.acms-usa.com
E-mail: membership#acms-usa.com

---

AMSA (American Marine Surveyors Association) – Out of Business

American Marine Surveyors Association, Inc. (AMSA) was a Delaware corporation.  This was a small organization for certifying and assisting marine surveyors who wanted an organization with more personal contact and help between the association and its membership.  This worked well for several years until the founder and president went into a long period of hospitalization then passed away in Nov. 2010.  As a result, the organization lacked the hands-on leadership to keep it going and servicing its membership and enrolling new members.  Some of us still keep in touch and try to be of help to each other in solving sticky marine survey questions and problems.  Some of the old AMSA members have gone on to other accredited marine surveyor associations and some may have chosen not to.

Since AMSA is no longer active, you will not find it on the web, but that doesn’t mean the certification issued to those or us who passed the test is now invalid.  It’s just as good as the day it was issued.  The same as certifications issued by the other accredited marine surveyor organizations if they should fail.  Of course, none of these organizations is a legal regulatory body and membership in any of them is purely optional, not a requirement.  However, some insurance companies and banks have been convinced that all surveyors must be a member in either one of the two largest organizations and no other, or they are not qualified.  This is false and was done to increase their membership rolls and revenue as much as to make sure all marine surveyors were properly qualified.  The first part of this is improper conduct and can cause the client to have doubts about an otherwise highly experienced and qualified surveyor that choose not to join, or to drop their membership.  This problem is generally overcome by the surveyor submitting a good résumé to the insurance company or bank, but it delays the process.  The latter part is commendable since inexperienced newcomers to the marine surveying business should get certified after initial training (either schooling or apprenticeship) in vessel surveying.

When I took my certification test and joined AMSA many years ago I had already been surveying for over a quarter century (pre-dating most of the existing organizations), which made the test easy for me to pass.  However as stated above, we still recommend that anyone just entering into marine surveying, and with so much to learn about it, should get training and be certified by and join one of the organizations, at least until they have several years of surveying experience and become well known in this field.  Make sure you choose the organization that gives you plenty of support when you need it, not just collect your annual dues and ignore you, or be hard to reach easily when you have urgent questions.

Hope this helps clear up any questions about AMSA and accrediting marine surveyor organizations in general.

From Chapman Marine Surveyor.

Other Organizations

International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS®)
International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI®)
Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)
American Education Institute (AIE)
Society of Claim Law Associates (SCLA)
+

---

Related Resources:
Topic Pages w/Directories, Vendors, Products: Media: Books, Websites, etc.
Categorized by Topic & Hierarchy w/Links (Sitemap).

TABLE KEY: Resource Types are identified by the following Resource Codes (RC).
T = Topic Page.
TD = Topic Page w/Directory
V = Vendor Page.
VO = Vendor's Offerings.
VW = Vendor's Website.
MV = Media Vendor/Creator.
MS = Media Source.
P = Product Page.
PD = Product Documentation.
B = Book.
BB = Book - Biography.
BE = Book Excerpt.
BF = Book - Fiction.
M = Magazine.
MI = Magazine Issue.
MA = Magazine Article.
Vid = Video.
W = Website.
WA = Website Article.
WV = Website Video (incl. YouTube).
F = Forum.
FP = Forum Post.
S = Social Media.
SP = Social Media Post.
NOTES: Resource Codes are arranged above by resource directory hierarchy.
Resource Codes are displayed in the Right Column labeled "RC".  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒  ⇒ ⇓
Resource Codes which are BOLD indicate Media is available from our Academy eLibrary.⇒ ⇓
^ To view Media, Click on the Media Title to go to our webpage for that media and then:
^ ^ Scroll down to the Academy eLibrary section for media viewing instructions.
Resource Media (Books, Magazines, Videos, etc.) Titles are displayed in a smaller font.
Resource Titles below are arranged by hierarchy using "^" to show subordination.
Resource Links which are BOLD lead to EverythingAboutBoats.com ON-SITE pages.
Resource Links which are NOT BOLD lead OFF-SITE. We is not responsible for their content.
If a link fails or we should add a resource to this listing, please submit info via email to:
^ Editor♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@")

If any Related Resources should be added to this list, please submit info/links via email To:
Editor♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@")

---

NOT AN ACADEMY MEMBER?
CLICK HERE to discover how you can become a Member and gain FULL access to
thousands of expanded pages and dozens of excellent programs including our eLibrary!

CLICK HERE to view ALL the books, magazines, videos, etc. in our Academy eLibrary.
Media are also listed by category on the Topic Pages found on the Right Sidebar ⇒
CLICK HERE to donate any books, magazines, manuals, or videos, etc. to our Library.

---

EVERYTHING ON THIS PAGE OK?
If there is anything on this webpage that needs fixing, please let us know via email To:
Editor♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@")

THIS ARTICLE IS STILL EVOLVING!
The page may contain rough drafts that include raw source materials.

---

Visit our FEATURED ARTICLES Home Page
to see examples of our website's comprehensive contents!

Thanks to our amazing contributors for the steady flow of articles, and to our dedicated all-volunteer staff who sort, polish and format them, everyday we get a little bit closer to our goal of
Everything About Boats. If you would like to submit an article,
See Submitting Articles.

---

— TOP 20 MOST POPULAR ARTICLES —

Detroit Diesel 8.2 Liter “Fuel Pincher” V8 Engine
Cummins V-555 & VT-555 “Triple-Nickel” V8 Diesel Engine
Lehman 120 (6D380) Diesel Engine (Ford 2704C & 2715E)
Ford Industrial Power Products Diesel Engines
How to Identify Ford Diesel Engines
Ford 2715E Diesel Engine
Lehman Mfg. Co.
Perkins Engines
Universal Atomic 4
Sears Boat Motors: Motorgo, Waterwitch, Elgin, etc.
Chrysler & Force Outboards
Eska Outboard Motors
Allison Transmission
ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Marine Surveyors by Country
American Marine Ltd (Grand Banks)
Boat Inspection (Types of Marine Surveys)
Boat Builders: (A∼Z) (w/Vessel Types, Locale & Years Active)
USCG NVIC 07-95 Guidance on Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of Wooden Hulls
American Boat and Yacht Counsel (ABYC)

---

Layout of the EverythingAboutBoats.org Website's Pages

— Types of Webpages —
This website consists almost entirely of 3 types of webpages as follows:

1. TOPIC PAGES (See Main Topic Pages listed on Website Contents or the Right Sidebar) ⇒
   • EXAMPLE: – WEBSITE CONTENTS w/Links to MAIN TOPIC & Subtopic Pages:
   • EXAMPLE: 02 – BOAT BUILDING, OUTFITTING, REFITTING & REPAIR:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06 – Boat Equipment:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08 – Propulsion Machinery:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 – Engines w/Directory of Vendors.
2. VENDOR PAGES (Vendors of Products, Services, Events,+, Destinations & Media Creators)
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^  Ford Industrial Power Products Diesel Engines.
3. PRODUCT PAGES (Equipment, Events, Media: pDoc, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites,+)
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford 2715E Diesel Engine.
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford OpManual - 2710 Range Diesel Engines.
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford Service Manual - 2700 & 2710 Range Diesel Engines.

Clickable Links that lead to other webpages appear in Blue Text and usually open in a new window.
Links in the Right Sidebar and most directories open in the current window, not a new window.
Note in the examples above that these pages form a natural hierarchy.
The unnumbered "^" pages are listed alphabetically in most tables.
Media Titles in tables are distinguished by their smaller font size.
Media (Books, Magazines, Videos, Articles,+) are treated as Products.
Vendors' Product Documentation (pDoc) are considered Media.
Destinations & Media Creators are treated as Vendors.
All Website Pages are optimized for viewing on
full-width disktop computer monitors,
but can be viewed on phones.

— Contents of Webpages —
Website Pages typically contain the following Sections:

1. PATH (Shows the chain of EAB pages w/links that lead to the page being viewed).
   1. EXAMPLE:
      PATH: HOME, WEBSITE INDEX, WEBSITE CONTENTS » ∨
      ∧ BOAT BUILDING & REPAIR » Boat Equipment » Propulsion » Engines » ∨∨
      ∧∧ Ford, Ebro, American Diesel, AmMarine, Barr, Beta, Bomac, Bowman, Couach,
      Lees, Lehman, Mermaid, Parsons, Renault, Sabre, Thornycroft, Wortham Blake »
      ∧ DO-IT-YOURSELF » DIY Boat Building & Repair » DIY Schools & Classes »
      ∧ MEDIA w/Creator Directory » Documentation, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites »
   2. (The "»" right pointing Guillemet symbol shows the chain through the page links.)
   3. (The "," comma between page links in the chain indicates pages are not subordinate, but are instead at the same level. See engine brands in the example above.)
   4. (The "∨", "∨∨", "∨∨∨",+ symbols indicate that the path line continues with whatever follows the "∧", "∧∧", "∧∧∧",+ symbols respectively. "∧" Precedes each MAIN TOPIC Page.)
2. PAGE CONTENTS (Table of Contents with links to each main section on the page).
   
3. PAGE BODY (The type of page determines the contents of its body as follows:).
   1. TOPIC PAGES (Topic Treatment: Introduction, Overview, Background, Details,+).
      • (Many Topic Pages contain Directories of Vendors with Links).
      • (Most Directory Listings are Alphabetical and/or by Locale).
   2. VENDOR PAGES (Vendor's Profile, Contact Information, Products, Services,+).
      • (Manufacturers, Resellers, Refitters, Yards, Surveyors, Clubs, Schools, Authors,+).
      • (Boating & Travel Destinations are treated as Vendors on their own Vendor Pages).
   3. PRODUCT PAGES (Product Features, Vendor Links, Specifications, Documentation,+).
      • (Media created by a vendor is often treated as a Product on its own Product Page).
      • (Boating & Travel Events are often treated as Products on their own Product Pages).
4. RELATED RESOURCES (Topics, Vendors, Products, Media: Books, Websites,+ with Links).
5. PAGE TAIL Contains the following Anchors Aweigh Academy & EAB Website Features:
   1. The Anchors Aweigh Academy's EverythingAboutBoats.org Header.
   2. A link to our Featured Articles EAB Home Page.
   3. Top 20 Most Popular Articles. (The section that appears right above ⇑ this section).
   4. Layout of the EverythingAboutBoats.org Website's Pages. (This very section ⇐).
   5. Topics of Webpages. (The very next section below ⇓).
   6. What we have accomplished so far.
   7. Members must Sign-In to gain full access to Expanded Pages & Programs.
   8. Sign-Up (if not already a member).
   9. Public Comments (about the website & about this page).
6. RIGHT SIDEBAR (Website Contents menu with links to Main Topic & Subtopic pages).
   (On some smart phones, the Right Sidebar may appear at the bottom of the webpage)

— Topics of Webpages —
Website Pages are categorized under the following 16 MAIN TOPICS:

The MAIN TOPICS follow a natural progression from conception of the vessel thru its
building, marketing, survey, financing, insuring, transport, moorage, use and upkeep.
The MAIN TOPICS (all Caps) below are followed by their Main Subtopics with Links.

00 – HOME: CONTENTS, ABOUT EAB: Contact EAB, Abbreviations & Symbols, FAQ, GLOSSARY, ADs,+.
01 – ABOUT BOATS w/Museum Directory: Early History, Recent History, Modern Vessel Types,+.
02 – BOAT BUILDING, OUTFITTING, REFITTING & REPAIR: Materials, Equipment, Builders,+.
03 – BOAT MARKETING: Boat Shows, Dealers & Brokers, Importing & Exporting, Auctions & Sales,+.
04 – BOAT INSPECTION: Types of Marine Surveys, Marine Surveyors, Schools, DIY Inspections,+.
05 – BOAT TITLES & VESSEL REGISTRY: Boat Title & Registration, Vessel Registry, Title Co's,+.
06 – BOAT FINANCING: Conventional (Banks, Credit Unions,+), Unconventional (Creative),+.
07 – BOAT INSURANCE: Maritime & Recreational: Coverage, Carriers, Agents,+., Claim Processing,+.
08 – BOAT TRANSPORT: By Sea (Piggyback, Delivery Skippers & Crews, & Towing), Over-Land,+.
09 – BOAT HAULING & LAUNCHING: Drydocks, Ways, Lifts, Cranes & Hoists, Launch Ramps,+.
10 – BOAT MOORAGE & STORAGE: Builders, Anchorages, Marinas, Yards, Racks & Stacks,+.
11 – BOATING ORGANIZATIONS: Yacht Clubs & Sailing Clubs, Paddling Clubs, Boat Owners,+.
12 – BOATING & TRAVEL: Events, Destinations, Boat Rentals & Charters, Cruises, Voyages,+.
13 – BOATING & MARITIME EDUCATION: Recreational Seamanship, Ship's Master & Crew,+.
14 – MARINE LAWS & REGULATIONS: International & National Laws‚ Lawyers‚ Investigators‚+.
15 – DO-IT-YOURSELF: DIY Boat Building & Repair, DIY Boat Sales, DIY Boat Surveys, DIY Classes,+.
16 – MEDIA w/Creator Directory + Academy eLibrary: pDocs, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites,+.

The above MAIN TOPICS and a more detailed listing of Subtopics
can be found on the Website Contents page and on the Right Sidebar.
An Alphabetical Index of the website can be accessed at Website Index.

---

What we have accomplished so far.
Anchors Aweigh Academy and its EverythingAboutBoats.org website.

• Published over 50,000 website pages about boats and boating, bringing us closer to reaching our goal of becoming "The ultimate reference resource about boats and ships for everyone from the beginning recreational boater to the seasoned professional mariner!"
• Published over 300 website main topic webpages, many with full articles on the topic. See our Website Contents or the Right Sidebar for the listing of the main topic pages.
• Published over 9,000 marine vendor webpages, all with their contact information, most with a description of their products and services, many with product documentation, specifications and independent reviews. (incl.: Boat designers, boat building tools, material and equipment manufacturers and suppliers, boat builders and dealers, yacht brokers, marine surveyors, boat insurers, boat transporters, skippers and crews, boatyards and marinas, yacht clubs, boat rentals and yacht charters, boating, seamanship and maritime schools, marine law attorneys and expert witnesses, boat refitters and repairers, book authors, magazine publishers, video producers, and website creators)
• Acquired over 120,000 pages of product documentation including Catalogs, Brochures, SpecSheets, Pictures, Serial Number Guides, Installation Manuals, OpManuals, Parts Catalogs, Parts Bulletins, Shop Manuals, Wiring Diagrams, Service Bulletins, and Recalls. And have made all viewable to Academy Members through our EAB website eLibrary.
• Acquired over 1,200 books and magazine back issues in our academy library and so far have made over 700 viewable to Academy Members through our EAB website eLibrary.
• Published over 500 DIY How-To articles about boat design, construction, inspection, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair. We are working hard to do more.

We are currently formatting and polishing the Anchors Aweigh Academy online and hands-on courses. Our Marine Surveying course has proven to be excellent for both the beginner and the seasoned surveyor, and especially helpful to the Do-It-Yourselfer.

---

Current Academy Members must SIGN IN to gain FULL access to this
website including expanded pages and valuable Academy programs
like our Academy eLibrary and our Ask-An-Expert Program!
If your membership has expired, CLICK HERE to Renew.

IF YOU ARE NOT YET AN ANCHORS AWEIGH ACADEMY MEMBER,
CLICK HERE to discover how you can become a Member and gain FULL access to
thousands of expanded pages and articles, and dozens of excellent programs
WITH JUST A SMALL DONATION!

---

Comments for Public Viewing

Submit any comments for public viewing via email To: Comments♥EverthingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@")
Please remember to put this webpage's title in the subject line of your email.
All comments are moderated before they appear on this page. See Comment Rules.

General Comments About the Website

FROM Donald: "This is an awesome website. I found the information that I needed right away from one of the over 20,000 free articles that you provide as a public service. I'm surprised that so much if this site is free. But I still signed up so I could access the thousands of expanded pages, interesting articles, and dozens of valuable programs! The member's library of books, magazines and videos that I can view online is really terrific! I understand that you and your staff are all unpaid volunteers. Please keep up the good work. And I commend you for your plans to add another 10,000 free informative articles over the next year. I'm thrilled to support you in this endeavor with my small membership donation. Thanks again for all your hard work."

FROM Huey: "I agree with my Uncle, I too have found the articles to be very enlightening. They say that it will take about 100,000 articles to cover the full scope that they have envisioned for the website. They have over 20,000 articles so far and that's doing pretty well, but it could take several years to get the rest. I also noticed that many of the Main Topic Pages and some of the article pages are still in the rough draft stage. I guess that they will fill in as they can get volunteers to work on them. But what I can't figure out is why anyone would spend the time writing informative in depth articles just to give away free to this website for publication? What's in it for them?"

FROM Dewey: "Well Huey, to me It looks like most of the articles on this website are written by very informed people, like boating instructors, boat designers, boat builders, riggers, electricians, fitters, marine repair technicians and marine surveyors. Writing such articles helps establish them as knowledgeable professionals. After all, this website was originally created by a school for marine technicians and marine surveyors. The website is growing in content every day. They even had to move to a bigger, more powerful server because the website's traffic has been growing exponentially."

FROM Louie: "I agree with everyone above. This site is quickly becoming the ultimate reference resource about every aspect of boats and ships for everyone from the beginning recreational boater to the seasoned professional mariner. I use the topic pages on the right sidebar to browse around the website. It's like a Junior Woodchucks' Guidebook for Boaters. Their Members' Library of over 300 popular and obscure books and over 200 magazine back issues that can be viewed online is fabulous. The Academy's magazine is especially informative. On top of that, there is the "Ask-An-Expert program for members where you can get an expert's answer to any of your boat questions. And a whole years membership is only $25. What a deal! I really love being part of this "Everything About Boats" community and help provide thousands of helpful articles free to the public. I think that I'll sit down right now and write an article about my experiences boating with my uncle."

FROM Scrooge: "You rave about this website like it was the best thing since sliced bread. Well, I think it stinks. Sure, it has a lot of good information for boaters, and they're adding more every day, but it will probably never be finished. Furthermore, I don't even own a boat. And I wouldn't have a boat even if someone gave me one. Boats are a waste of money and time and energy and money! They're just a hole in the water you pour money into. If you gave me a boat, I'd sell it quicker then you could say Baggywrinkle. Then I'd lock up the cash with all my other money so I could keep my eye on it and count it every day. Bah humbug."

FROM Daisy: "I'm just so glad that Donald got the boat so we and the boys could enjoy boating — together. And of course all of the girls, April, May, and June, love to be on the water too, especially when that is where the boys are. Oh poor Scrooge, boating is more fun then you could possibly imagine."

FROM Scrooge: "After seeing how much fun you all have on the water together, I regret that I didn't have that much fun when I was young. I've had a change of heart, and I'm giving each of you a Lifetime Academy Membership."

FROM Editor: "For those of you that have stayed with us this far, many thanks, and we hope that you found this little narrative informative. Your faithful support inspires us to keep working on this phenomenal website. We know that we have a lot more to do. Ultimately, we hope that we can help you enjoy the wonder filled world of boating as much as we do. We are all waiting to see what you have to say about this webpage article. Submit any comments via email To: Comments♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@"). Be sure to include this page's title in the subject line. Also, your corrections, updates, additions and suggestions are welcomed. Please submit them via email To: Editor♥EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♥" with "@"). It has been truly amazing to see what we have been able to accomplished when we've worked together. Thanks to all those that have donated their valuable time and energy, and a special THANK YOU to all that have supported this cause with their membership donations."

Comments About This Particular Page

FROM ΞNameΞ: “Be_the_next_to_comment_about_this_page.” {230316}