Frequently Asked Questions

1What is a marine survey?

The marine survey determines if your boat meets safety criteria set forth by The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), Federal Code of Regulations (FCR), and National Fire Protection Association (NPA). The findings uncovered by a Marine Surveyor will determine the true value of the subject vessel and is often used as a negotiation tool.

2Why do I need a marine survey?

3How can I prepare for my survey?

If required, arrange for haul out with marina and captain for sea trial. Consider the tide when scheduling, some marinas are difficult to navigate.

When the vessel is stored out of water the surveyor typically starts with the out of water inspection followed by the boat being splashed for sea trial. When the inspection starts with the boat in the water the sea trial can be conducted in route to haul out.

Provide specific information such as the vessel’s listing, exact location, and time for haul out, as well as name and contact information of all parties to be present for survey.

Present a clean vessel free of clutter and personal belongings. All equipment included in the sale should be readily accessible, personal belongings should be removed from the vessel prior to inspection. Storage compartments and the bilge should be cleared and cleaned to allow for through inspection.

Have keys to equipment, cabin, and lockers available.

Service records and vessel documentation should be available for the surveyor to review.

Shore power access and shore power cord will be needed to test AC electrical power.

Fuel and water tanks should have adequate levels to conduct testing.

Ensure safety items such as flares, personal flotation device, fire extinguishers, cabin CO/smoke alarms and navigation lights are serviceable to avoid superfluous safety findings.

The engine should only be started once the surveyor is present and from a “cold” start.

4How much does a boat survey cost?

Our rates vary based on the survey type and vessel specifications. Most clients recoup the cost of a pre-purchase survey through negotiation leverage or avoided repair surprises, making it a wise investment. Rates listed apply to fiberglass powerboats (2015 or newer) under 50 feet.

• Pre Purchase Survey: $26 - $30/ft ($850 minimum)

• Insurance Survey: $22 - $26/ft ($750 minimum)

• Appraisal Survey: Starting at $750

• Consulting: $175/hr (2 hr minimum)

• Oil Analysis: $75 per sample

5When will I get my report?

The survey report is delivered to the client via email. Your report is guaranteed within three business days of the inspection. Next day service is sometimes available if requested in advance.

6I’m ready to book my survey, what’s next?

Contact us! When you are ready to secure your survey appointment we will email an invoice portal to complete online. Once payment is complete your survey appointment is secured. Please make note of our terms of service and cancelation policy attached to your invoice.

Reviews From Boaters Like You

    
 
 
         
   Taryn Torregrosa 
 April 29, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I spoke with Tayler and she was very friendly and informative. The pricing was fair and the overall service was great. I would use again or recommend to a friend.
  
 
        
   michael rawdon 
 March 17, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Marshall Marine was a pleasure to deal with.  Taylor was great expediting our survey and chris did a very thorough job going thru the boat with us.
  
 
        
   Chris Thompson 
 March 6, 2022.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working on a very short timeframe Marshal Marine Surveying were able to provide a thorough and professional survey for me.  Thanks
  
 
        
   Thomas Whittles 
 October 13, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptionally professional organization!  Tayler provided fast responsive customer service.  Chris is very knowledgeable on every facet of a boat and conducted a full and thorough marine survey.  I strongly recommend Marshall Marine and will definitely use them again for my next boat purchase.  Great people and a great organization!
  
 
        
   Paul Mucciolo 
 September 27, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris was prompt, friendly and courteous.  While professional and very thorough, Chris treated our boat with the same degree of care with which we maintained her.  He knows and understands boats.
  
 
        
   andrew schneider 
 May 25, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris and his assistant were great, it was my first time needing a marine survey and they were able to guide me through the process like a expert captain guides is ship back home. Tamara that answers the phone was able to work with my schedule and Chris was prompt professional and extremely knowledgeable. The report met all of my lenders needs and I feel at ease knowing that there are no unknown mechanical or structural issues with the boat. 10:10 would book again.
  
 
        
   william russell 
 March 2, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very polite and professional from the 1st phone call to completion of the survey. Being from out state I was unable to be present for the survey.
Chris worked with the seller conducted the survey and gave me a brief but thorough overview on the phone followed by a very detailed written report  with an abundance of photos. The information provided was essential in the negotiation and decision to purchase the boat. Money well spent. Thank you
  
 
        
   Brenda McClymonds 
 February 9, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Marshall Marine Surveying provides timely, thorough and professional service.
  
 
        
   Scott Oster 
 January 23, 2021.
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They did a great job. Timely and professional.