Marine Survey Services in the Panhandle

BES Marine Survey specializes in stability examinations, Coast Guard inspection preparation, pre-purchase survey, construction oversight survey, insurance surveys, damage investigation and surveys. vessel delivery, vessel engineering and stuctual analysis, legal case preparation, professional witness service well as crew training. Our inspector has a 100 Ton Masters License and over 22 years of United States Coast Guard experience.

A pre-purchase survey is a thorough inspection of the vessel’s structural integrity, system’s installation, and operating condition, as well as performance. A comprehensive report is issued which includes an equipment list and detailed list of deficiencies and recommendations. Replacement and market values [in US dollars] are assigned to the vessel. Most lending institutions and insurance companies require a 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. On some occasions, a sea trial is included, but at extra cost. An appraisal of the vessel’s fair market value and replacement cost is included.

Insurance surveys are conducted to determine marine risk and value of a vessel, and are often used for re-insurance of vessel. 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.

New construction surveys are conducted on a progressive inspection schedule throughout the vessels construction. Inspection includes observations of the structural integrity of the hull and stringer systems, installation of equipment, and cosmetic fit and finish of the vessel upon completion.
An inspection to determine the vessel’s value is conducted primarily for refinancing, estate settlement, and divorce asset value. 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 and legal cases. A special form of this appraisal is used when donating a vessel to a tax deductible organization in that the appraisal must be entitled, “Appraisal is for Income Tax or Other Related Purpose” and an Internal Revenue Service form 8283 attached.

This assessment is usually conducted concurrent to the above survey. The vessel is taken out to sea to obtain information on it’s suitability for it’s intended use and also to test how well the engines function under load, how well they are attached to the vessel, to check that the shafting turns true, that there is no leakage from engines, stern glands or rudder glands, check engines running temperatures under load and for hot spots, check the exhaust systems are tight, check for undue vibration of the engines or running gear, and to observe the exhaust product of the engines, etc…

At that time we check the vessel’s instrumentation to see how well gauges function, and get some idea of their accuracy. At that time we can measure the actual RPM against instrument readouts. Analog gauges have a tendency to be accurate over a narrower range than digital ones. A check is made to see how well the generators carry load demands, how well the batteries respond to engine starting and auxiliary loads etc. and how well they hold their charge.

As a buyer, and during these trials, you may want to consider if the vessel provides you with the degree of comfort and amenities that you and your family or friends want. This Report usually forms a part of the Condition & Valuation Survey, if they are conducted at the same time.

A non-destructive moisture meter determines moisture content in fiberglass lamination and wood. A moisture inspection is necessary prior to final lay-up after a blister repair.

Checks for water and fuel contamination on all engine samples. Elemental analysis indicates, in parts per million (ppm), the amount of wear on engine components and also gives indication of the additives element levels (Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, and Zinc).

Samples are drawn from engines while hot and sent to an Oil Analysis Laboratory to determine quantity & identity of metals in suspension. An opinion is offered on what course of action, if any, should be taken.

Damage inspections determine the scope of damage and aid in the formulation of a repair plan. Progressive inspections of the repair work are often requested along with a final inspection of completed repair work.
A list of maintenance recommendations is compiled in order to prioritize maintenance items. This is often conducted prior to the vessel’s scheduled shipyard service.
Insurance claim consultations are conducted to verify the scope of damage and settlement issued by an insurance adjuster or surveyor.
Inspections of repair work are conducted to attest to the level of integrity and cosmetic quality of shipyard and/or sub-contractor repair work.
Hull bottom inspections are conducted to ascertain the integrity of the hull, identify any damage due to groundings or contact with submerged objects and check for proper alignment of the running gear.

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Office: (850) 832-0911 Email: BESContractors@att.net
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