Frank Abbey, C M S
Marine Surveyor
About us
At the time of this publication in early 2014 hundreds of vessels, ranging in size from 14’ to 60’, have been surveyed or appraised by Frank Abbey.
The marine survey is a written report providing the dimensions, gear, hull
structure, equipment, propulsion machinery, and the basic lay-out and
condition of the vessel. The physical and visual examination consists
inspecting the hull, fittings, gear, machinery and equipment to ascertain all of
these items are in sea worthy condition. A marine survey also consists of
inspecting fresh water lines, sinks, faucets, tanks (fuel, water, waste) fuel
lines, thru-hull fittings, raw water hoses, batteries, electrical 12 volt and 120
volt systems, air conditioning units and pumps, steering, vents, blowers, cabin
windows, galley equipment, navigational equipment, lights and railing to make
sure all are in good condition. Included in the survey is a list of
"Recommendations" and any "Damage Observed" along with color
photographs inside and out of the vessel. This information is then compiled to
estimate a current market value.
Who needs a marine survey?
A person requiring a survey must contact a surveyor to arrange a date and
time for the survey. At that time, a work order will be completed with the
details of the survey to be conducted. The person who requested the survey
must review and sign the work order prior to the survey. The owner and
storing/mooring facility must grant access to the vessel with keys and a
means to board the vessel. Any winter covers need to be removed before the
survey to allow complete inspection of the boat. If the covers have not been
removed, there will be an additional fee to do so, and they will not be put
back over the vessel.
A survey must be paid for in advance or at the vessel before the survey.
A boat should be hauled out in order to perform a complete inspection of the
under water portion of the hull and machinery for a pre-purchase survey. The
charges to haul the boat are the responsibility of the person ordering the
survey, unless other arrangements have been agreed on.
Preparation, prior to the survey
Interesting articles
Blocked raw water intake valve handle
Faulty gen set exhaust
Improper installation of aux fuel tank
Improper installation of flex fuel line
Boating Information - Rules - Regulations
ABYC - Boating Safety Check-list 2013
Navigation Lights - Power-Boats less than 20 meters
Rigging check-list
USCG Navigation Rules International - Inland Rule book
USCG Documentation vessel Marking Regulations
USCG Minimum Equipment Requirements
