Question 1

1. What is a pre-purchase marine survey?

Accepted Answer

A pre-purchase survey is a detailed inspection completed before buying a vessel. It examines the hull, propulsion, steering, fuel, electrical, and safety systems to determine the vessel’s overall condition and compliance with Transport Canada TP1332E and TP511E standards, as well as COLREG requirements. The report helps buyers make an informed decision and provides a clear fair market value before purchase.

Question 2

2. What is an insurance survey?

Accepted Answer

An insurance survey evaluates the vessel’s condition and safety compliance for insurance purposes. It verifies that the vessel meets required standards, documents any maintenance issues, and provides an updated fair market value for underwriters.

Question 3

3. What is a vessel appraisal or valuation survey?

Accepted Answer

A valuation or appraisal survey determines the vessel’s current market and replacement value. It is commonly requested for insurance, financing, or estate purposes and provides an independent statement of value supported by photos and professional assessment.

Question 4

4. Do I need to haul my vessel out of the water for a survey?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Some insurance companies allow in-water surveys if the vessel was recently hauled out and clear photos of the hull, running gear, and through-hulls are available. Sea Captain Marine Surveyor Inc. performs both in-water and out-of-water surveys depending on your insurer’s requirements.

Question 5

5. Who needs a marine survey?

Accepted Answer

Marine surveys are required by most insurance companies every three to five years, depending on vessel age and construction. Buyers, sellers, and lenders also rely on surveys to confirm condition and value. Owners may request periodic surveys for maintenance planning or resale.

Question 6

6. When should I schedule a marine survey?

Accepted Answer

It’s best to schedule a survey before purchasing, selling, or renewing your insurance policy. Surveys can also be arranged after major repairs or modifications. During the busy summer season (June to August), booking in advance is recommended.

Question 7

7. How do I prepare my vessel for a marine survey?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the vessel is clean and accessible. Remove unnecessary personal gear so compartments, bilges, and through-hull fittings can be inspected clearly. Have batteries charged, keys available, and systems such as bilge pumps, navigation lights, and engines ready for operation.

Question 8

8. How long does a marine survey take?

Accepted Answer

An insurance survey generally takes two to three hours. A pre-purchase survey can take three to six hours, depending on vessel size and whether a short operational trial run is included.

Question 9

9. What is a short operational trial run?

Accepted Answer

A short operational trial run is a brief on-water test that allows the surveyor to observe propulsion, steering, charging, and cooling systems under load. It is not a full sea trial but provides valuable performance information.

Question 10

10. What does a marine survey include?

Accepted Answer

A marine survey includes an inspection of the hull and structure, propulsion and steering systems, fuel and exhaust systems, electrical and plumbing installations, navigation electronics, and safety gear. Findings are documented with photos and compliance notes referencing ABYC, NFPA 302, and Transport Canada standards.

Question 11

11. What is not included in a marine survey?

Accepted Answer

Surveys are non-destructive inspections. They do not include dismantling, pressure testing, or examination of inaccessible areas. Specialized testing such as oil analysis, mechanical diagnostics, or ultrasonic hull thickness measurements can be arranged separately.

Question 12

12. How much does a marine survey cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees are based on the vessel’s length and survey type. • Pre-purchase surveys start at twenty-five dollars per foot.
-Insurance surveys start at twenty-one dollars per foot.
-Additional travel or haul-out costs may apply. Written quotes are always provided in advance.

Question 13

13. How can I pay for my survey?

Accepted Answer

Sea Captain Marine Surveyor Inc. accepts CAD e-Transfer, cheque, cash, credit card through the website payment portal, and select cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, XRP, USDT). Full payment is due before the inspection unless otherwise arranged.

Question 14

14. Will my insurance company or lender accept your survey?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All reports meet professional inspection and documentation standards recognized by major insurance companies and lenders across Canada. Surveys are completed by a qualified marine surveyor with Transport Canada certification as Master 150 Gross Ton, Chief Mate 500 Gross Ton, and SVMO, as well as ABYC certification in Marine Electrical Advisory, corrosion, and mechanical systems.

Question 15

15. How soon will I receive my report?

Accepted Answer

Reports are typically issued within two business days of the inspection. During peak season, completion may take slightly longer, but all reports are submitted as quickly as possible.

Question 16

16. Can you survey aluminum, steel, and fiberglass boats?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sea Captain Marine Surveyor Inc. surveys fiberglass, aluminum, and steel vessels using appropriate inspection techniques for each construction type. Wooden hulls are not surveyed.

Question 17

17. Is my vessel too old to insure or survey?

Accepted Answer

No. Vessel age is not a restriction. Many older boats qualify for insurance if properly maintained. Sea Captain Marine Surveyor Inc. surveys vessels of all ages, excluding wooden hulls.

Question 18

18. What standards and regulations do you follow?

Accepted Answer

All inspections follow the standards and regulations set out by: • Transport Canada TP1332E Construction Standards for Small Vessels. 
• Transport Canada TP511E Small Vessel Regulations. 
• ABYC system and electrical standards. 
• NFPA 302 Fire Protection Standard for Pleasure and Commercial Craft. 
• COLREG for navigation and lighting compliance.

Question 19

19. How much experience do you have?

Accepted Answer

Surveys are conducted by a Transport Canada–certified Master and ABYC Marine Electrical Advisor with additional training in mechanical, corrosion, and safety systems. This professional background ensures every report is thorough, objective, and accepted by insurers and lenders throughout British Columbia.

Question 20

20. Can I attend the survey and ask questions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clients are encouraged to attend the survey and ask questions at any point. It’s the best way to understand your vessel’s systems, safety equipment, and maintenance needs.

Question 21

21. What kind of safety equipment do I need on my vessel?

Accepted Answer

Safety requirements are outlined in Transport Canada TP511E – Small Vessel Regulations. Typically, vessels must carry updated flares, a properly tagged and inspected fire extinguisher, a waterproof flashlight, a buoyant heaving line, and a sound-signaling device. Depending on vessel size and type, additional gear may include lifejackets or PFDs, a life buoy, a radar reflector, a reboarding ladder, and navigation lights in compliance with COLREG. All safety gear must be in good working order and accessible at all times.

Question 22

22. What does the surveyor look for during the inspection?

Accepted Answer

During an inspection, the surveyor examines key safety and structural systems including the bilge pumps, through-hull fittings, and hose connections. The grounding of fuel tanks and fuel fill fittings is verified, as well as the condition of the exhaust system and hose clamps. Navigation lights, safety equipment, and electrical bonding are checked for proper installation and operation. The goal is to confirm that all systems are secure, compliant, and safe for continued use.