Navigating the Inspection: A Deep Dive into Marine Boat Surveys
Marine surveys are important inspections of a boat’s condition that provide essential information to craft owners looking to make an informed decision when purchasing, insuring, and maintaining watercraft. Of course, each survey is different and there are many parameters that must be considered before beginning. In this article, we’ll go deeper into what marine boat surveys in Sarasota involve so you can feel confident moving forward with your own vessel inspection.
Understanding the Purpose of a Marine Boat Survey
The purpose of a marine boat survey is to gain a full understanding of the deep-sea vessel’s condition. This includes reviewing all on-board components including parts of the hull, deck, engine, fuel tanks, navigation equipment, bottom paint, and more. Additionally, an on-water test might be included to ensure the safety measures are up to par while also identifying any possible issues with the craft’s performance.
Different Types of Marine Boat Surveys in Sarasota
There are several types of surveys that can be performed for vessels and boats depending on the purpose of the inspection and its relative size. Here’s a breakdown of each:
• Pre-Purchase/Condition & Value Survey: Generally used by buyers, this type of survey looks at the general condition of the vessel and offers an evaluation of value in order to negotiate a price.
• Insurance Surveys: Performed upon renewal or purchase of insurance policies for vessels over 25 feet in length.
• Damage Surveys: Used to determine cause and extent of damage done to a boat due to structural failure, grounding, weather conditions, etc., as well as providing loss evaluations.
• Commercial Vessel Surveys: These surveys are carried out on commercial vessels, such as fishing boats, tugboats, tour boats, etc., for both domestic and international use.
• Safety Equipment Surveys: To ensure safety features meet regulatory requirements and standards for vessels operating within three miles from shore.
Choosing the Right Professional For Your Marine Boat Survey in Sarasota
To get reliable results and information from your survey, it’s essential to hire a qualified professional who specializes in marine boat surveys in Sarasota. Licensed and certified marine surveyors have the credentials and experience needed to carry out unbiased, accurate inspections that will identify any potential issues with the vessel and provide pertinent recommendations for repair or maintenance. It’s also important to choose someone with local experience since coastal laws may vary by state and must be considered during a survey.
Sun Coast Marine Surveying provides comprehensive marine boat surveys in Sarasota and across Southwest Florida. Our team of licensed professionals specialize in inspecting sailboats, powerboats, yachts, and all other types of watercraft. We take care of every step involved in the process – from evaluating critical systems and safety measures aboard the vessel to diving into the engine room and performing various other tests – so you can rest easy knowing your marine boat survey was conducted thoroughly in compliance with all applicable regulations. Contact us today to set up your marine boat survey in Sarasota.
Conducting a Marine Boat Survey
The actual marine boat survey itself should involve multiple steps depending on the agreement between you and your chosen professional. Visually inspecting major components such as rigging, electrical wiring and panels, hull shell plating, void spaces, doors/hatches/windows, through-hull fittings, and more should always be part of it as these components play an important role in the overall condition of the vessel. They should also confirm measurements taken against those on file for the boat to check if any alterations were made without proper documentation. Additionally, internal systems such as plumbing lines, engines, and tanks should be inspected for cracks or leaks to determine their effectiveness throughout the duration of time that they will be used.
Furthermore, keep in mind that during a marine boat survey additional information may be requested from the owner or operator surrounding maintenance work completed on board as well as third-party details related to repairs not directly carried out by the individual conducting the survey. All information gathered during these investigations will help inform decisions regarding the vessel’s maintenance or safety moving forward so it’s imperative you’re prepared to provide as much detail as possible during any interviews or conversations about your boat and its history.
Conclusion
Taking care of your vessel starts with having it inspected by a professional who specializes in marine boat surveys in Sarasota. By understanding different types of inspections available as well as necessary steps for proper coverage (including onboard meetings), you’ll be able to make a fully informed decision about which type of survey is best suited for your particular watercraft prior to choosing an inspector that meets your requirements. Contact Sun Coast Marine Surveying today to book your marine boat survey in Sarasota and get back out on the open waters with confidence!r