Marine Consultants Inc., Matthew L. Harris, NAMS® CMS, SAMS®-AMS® Bellingham, Washington, USA

Marine Consultants Inc.

Marine Surveyors and Consultants

Bellingham, Washington, USA
Worldwide Service
Call: 360 815-0535 - Email: M_DBA@msn.com

Matthew L. Harris, NAMS®-CMS, SAMS®-AMS®
Principal Marine Surveyor

Aaron D. Bandstra
SAMS® Surveyor Associate

Available Services

Pre-Purchase Surveys:

Engine Trials

These are performed to help a purchaser learn the true condition and value of a vessel. The survey report is composed of three main parts:

A description of the vessel with a detailed inventory of major equipment. Photos are appended to the end of the report.
A valuation determination.
A notes section, composed of the following:
- General Notes: Typically include reporting the general condition of the vessel, any special considerations or circumstances regarding the survey, specific criteria used, and Advisory or Service/Maintenance Notes.
- Priority Findings: A list of any Findings and Recommendations legally required or considered essential for continued safe operation or use of the vessel.
- Other Findings and Recommendation: A list of other less urgent Findings and Recommendations.

The Condition and Valuation Survey report is also suitable for use by banks and insurance companies for finance or insurance underwriting purposes.

The survey includes a detailed examination of the vessel to determine its apparent condition, with deficiencies beyond normal wear and tear reported.

Additionally, most equipment will be energized to determine apparent functional status as circumstances permit and if permission is granted. However, equipment testing cannot be exhaustive.

Vessel types surveyed include: Pleasure boats and yachts both power and sail, and certain commercial vessels. Vessel construction of all types is covered, including:

Fiberglass
Composite
Wood including plank on frame, strip plank, plywood, or cold molded
Welded Steel. Ultrasonic thickness testing is available.
Welded Aluminum. Ultrasonic thickness testing is available.

Condition and Valuation Surveys:

These surveys are typically performed at the request of vessel owners, for refinance, insurance renewals, or to learn the current condition and value of their vessels. The report is the same format as the Pre-Purchase Survey report.

Engine Trial and Report:

Engine Trials

A generic Engine Trial and Report is offered for diesel engines rated below two hundred horsepower. This includes a detailed examination beyond the normal survey, involving observations and some instrumented testing of the engine and a trial run with report. This work will help determine the apparent current condition of the engine and can include checks for normal starting, cooling system deficiencies, alarm systems, instrument accuracy, alternator output, exhaust smoke and/or exhaust water observations, crank case blow-by, vibration level assessment, engine mounts, propeller sizing, control systems condition, etc.

This Engine Trial and Report is offered only in conjunction with a Condition and Valuation Survey, for an extra fee, and is subject to the permission of the vessel owner. Oil sample testing may be optionally added to this service.

While this Engine Trial and Report cannot guarantee the condition of the equipment, it will typically reveal current problems needing attention and needed maintenance work.

New Vessel Surveys:

construction oversight

Marine Consultants Inc. has extensive experience with assisting new vessel owners with inspections during the build process, and with new vessel surveys, and has performed these inspections and surveys worldwide.

This work can significantly reduce the "teething problems" many new vessel owners experience. We have found in many cases that the builders ultimately appreciate the work as it helps with their quality control and reduces warranty claims.

Please contact this office to discuss.

Damage Evaluation Surveys:

damage surveys

This work is typically performed for insurance claims adjusters, or for vessel owners concerned with determining the true nature and extent of damages to a vessel.

Go To Main Page.