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Who is a Marine Surveyor – Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Skills

Shipyards take great care in designing and building ships , with regular inspections. They know every mistake will cost them heavily in terms of delays and fines.

Once the construction of a ship is finished, the shipowners must then ascertain that the vessel meets the standard laid out in the building contract.

Although most organisations employ in-house specialists, they ensure that the vessel meets the benchmark, and an independent inspection may sometimes be required for the same.

Third-party inspectors may need to survey a vessel separately. Generally, marine insurers might require an assessment of the condition of a ship before some legal arbitration. Or standardisation bodies might need people qualified to ascertain a ship’s seaworthiness before being registered. In all these scenarios, specialists with enormous maritime experience and knowledge often handle the situation.

These specialists who inspect and monitor various ships using advanced inspection methods are known as “Marine Surveyors”. Considered to be one of the most prestigious vocations in the industry, it demands a great deal of technical know-how. A marine surveyor should know how to inspect a vessel’s hull, marine engines, electrical system, and other electronics, check for water intrusion, proper functioning of the heat and airconditioning etc.

This article will dive into marine surveyors’ world and analyse their responsibilities, qualifications, and skills.

Table of Contents

What are the Duties of a Marine Surveyor?

Marine surveyors conduct inspections of vessels of all types, including commercial vessels, cargo vessels, passenger vessels, barges, tugboats, warships, ferries and pleasure yachts that are under 20 meters, all the way up to tankers measuring over 200 meters. They also inspect marine cargo and facilities like drydocks, canals, docks and oil rigs for pre-purchase evaluation, insurance claim resolution, regulation compliance and marking insurance eligibility.

A good surveyor can work with most vessels and help the buyer ascertain the long-term suitability of his asset.

To ensure proper functioning and disbursement of duties, there are several different responsibilities that these surveyors are required to fulfil.

The primary responsibility of a marine surveyor is to conduct thorough and extensive surveys of a ship. Before delivery, a complete analysis of the entire vessel must be carried out, as this determines the initial seaworthiness of the ship.

While playing an important role in maritime arbitration and insurance, it also lets the shipowner know that the vessel they are receiving is in the best possible condition.

Various surveys are carried out during the vessel’s life for different reasons. These could be annual surveys used to study vessel performance yearly. Or there could be interim surveys intended to inspect specific parts of a ship. Special surveys can also be conducted in case of registration or other formalities.

Another responsibility of a marine surveyor is to ensure that machinery and equipment are functioning as required. This includes essential components such as engines, communications and navigation. It also needs emergency and safety equipment to be checked under realistic operating conditions. The surveyor must witness the tests and ascertain that any generated reports fall within acceptable standards.

Along with inspections, surveyors must ascertain the load regulations and limits calculated for a vessel. Gross tonnage and deadweight tonnage (DWT) are to be cross-checked with the values stored in the stability handbook of the ship. Checking the load lines and draft markers is also required, as some companies may attempt to overload their boats. The surveyor assists in load line assignments and checks weight distribution as well.

The next duty that surveyors are required to perform is the investigation of maritime accidents. This could be part of insurance institutions or from the shipowners’ side when claiming marine insurance; ascertaining the ship’s condition before the accident is essential.

Determining the extent of the damage is also required. For this, marine surveyors consult reports of the vessel before the accident. In case of being submerged, salvage operations may be necessary. Before commencing a salvage, surveys may also be conducted to ensure that the wreck can be safely moved without damaging the vessel and the surrounding biosphere. Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance companies can also employ these marine surveyors as third-party specialists for ascertaining damage compensation.

In case of an accident, a marine surveyor will be required to investigate the occurrence from an official capacity as deemed by a relevant maritime law court. They report to the court in all matters about the condition and performance of the ship. They also act as expert witnesses who can depict the ship’s condition. In case of any deaths, the surveyor may have to assist the coroner in ascertaining probable causes and locations of demise. Thus, marine surveyors also play an important role in maritime law and serve as advisors to a court of law.

Lastly, surveyors can also be tasked with a fair and unbiased evaluation of maritime assets. When buying a ship from another party, it would be wise to engage a marine surveyor to determine the condition of the boat that you are receiving. In case you wish to sell a ship, surveyors provide a realistic figure for the ship’s market value, known as the Fair Market Value, from an unbiased analysis. During damage reports or component replacements, marine surveyors may also determine the expected costs to be incurred while accounting for various factors in the industry.

Some of the other duties that marine surveyors can perform include:

1. Marine warranty surveys 2. Charter surveys 3. Flag state surveys 4. Offshore structural surveys 5. Hull and equipment surveys 6. Cargo surveys

The Different Types of Surveyors

Since this industry is incredibly diverse and vast, different surveys are carried out by specialised surveyors who are experts in their respective fields. This section will look at the various types of surveyors and the organisations they fall under.

There can be two main types of surveyors depending on their primary objectives- proactive and reactive surveyors. Proactive surveyors aim to identify problems before they occur. They are generally responsible for assessing vessels before purchase or during routine checks.

In case any flaw or damage is located, a potential mishap is averted. Hence, the surveyors are considered to be proactive. On the other hand, reactive surveyors are called in after some incident has occurred. They include insurance, arbitration, and claimant surveyors. Since they assess the vessel as reacting to some occurrence, they are referred to as reactive surveyors.

Cargo surveyors are specialists hired by a charterer or organisation transporting cargo bulk. The cargo owner entrusts the surveyor with ensuring that the cargo is loaded and unloaded appropriately. In addition to assessing the cargo operations, the surveyor calculates the permissible loads and maximum and minimum drafts and cross-checks the manifest with the loaded cargo.

In the case of loose goods carried in bulk carriers, there may also be necessary to ensure sufficient provisions to prevent cargo from shifting during the journey. For expensive and high-value goods, the surveyor may be required to oversee the loading and unloading operations personally. When transporting goods prone to contamination or infection, the surveyor is responsible for ensuring that precautions are taken to secure the goods safely. As the name suggests, the cargo surveyor is responsible for all cargo-related operations and inspections.

Classification surveyors are representatives of the classification society and ensure that a vessel adheres to pre-set regulations. A classification society is a standardisation body responsible for ensuring that ships are built and operated safely. They may impose restrictions on boats based on the vessel class and require the ship to maintain these standards to retain their registration under the society.

The Lloyd’s Register, Bureau Veritas, and Indian Register of Shipping are prominent classification societies. These surveyors must inspect a vessel and its machinery to ensure it meets the set standards. They also serve as representatives of the vessel’s flag state to ensure that domestic statutes are adhered to. A flag state refers to the country’s flag under which a ship operates. This surveyor checks a vessel’s construction, outfitting, maintenance, pollution levels, etc., and passes a recommendation to both the flag state and the classification society. If there are any issues, a window of time is provided to correct the problem. These surveyors usually work alongside government surveyors.

Government surveyors are officials representing two main points of interest- a flag state representative and a port state representative. The flag state official ensures that a vessel registered under its country meets satisfactory requirements to continue its registration. In case of any prolonged and uncorrected issue, the flag state has the power to suspend or revoke a registration. This prevents the ship from entering any port, as it no longer has any affiliation. On the other hand, the port state official reports to the government of a country where a particular ship is docked. They are tasked with ensuring that all incoming and departing ships satisfy the requirements of that specific port. In addition to surveying vessels, they can also be responsible for ensuring that the draft limits of a port are maintained.

A yacht and small craft (Y&SC) surveyor is responsible for inspecting and monitoring a small boat. They check the various equipment and machinery onboard. Since most of these vessels are for personal pleasure, the owners hire surveyors to inspect their vessels. Although some surveyors operate under organisations, the vast majority of these hires are independent surveyors.

An insurance and warranty surveyor inspects vessels for insurance and P&I purposes. Either party in an insurance claim can hire them. For instance, insurance companies often hire staff surveyors to estimate the damage and determine whether it falls under a valid insurance claim. On the other hand, the claimant would employ a surveyor to conduct a private inquiry and may use their report in a court of maritime law. Although insurance companies often suggest that claimants hire a surveyor to run their analysis, both parties prefer involving an unbiased third party. It is illegal for an insurance company to force a particular surveyor on the claimant.

Lastly, an independent surveyor is an individual who carries out surveys independently, without being associated with any organisation. They are usually hired to run private third-party reports on a vessel’s construction or incident. They offer their services in pre-purchase surveys, evaluation, draft surveys, confidential insurance enquiries etc. Independent surveyors rely mainly on goodwill and publicity to increase their customer base.

Training, Qualifications and Accreditation

Being a marine surveyor requires several skills that need to be certified by official bodies. The training and certification phase is critical as it creates a foundation for being a successful surveyor. Working in that field for several years can be helpful to show expertise in specific skills.

For instance, to be a surveyor for container ships , having worked onboard a ship or at a port, a terminal can serve as a certification prospective clients wish to see. On the other hand, if you want to survey a domain with no valid experience, being certified by some third party is possible. Taking specific courses is relatively easy, as there are a large number of bodies that conduct them. These include Lloyd’s Register, Maritime Training Academy, and Det Norske Veritas Germanischer Lloyd (DNV GL). It is interesting to note that most standardisation societies provide certification on many maritime courses.

Regarding certification for Marine Surveying itself, there are relatively few options available. This may be because surveying is a skill learnt with extensive experience and is not something that can be picked up overnight with a classroom course. Reputation is king in this industry, and no amount of certification will bring in clients unless you possess certain vital qualities.

Nevertheless, there are specific international organisations providing certification in this surveying. These include Lloyd’s Maritime Academy, the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS), the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS), and the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS). Members of SAMS, known as Accredited Marine Surveyors (AMS), hold valid certification and represent a large group of surveyors who establish precedents and maintain standards for all members to follow. Most societies suggest getting direct experience under a marine surveyor after completing their courses. However, one can also directly approach an experienced surveyor first instead of joining a class.

The primary skills that prospective clients look for in a surveyor are subjective. Generally, well-spoken and confident individuals portray a positive image. However, anyone who can prove their expertise in this field is quickly given opportunities. A candidate must be able to write reports compact yet detailedly. Since survey reports are the first impression of any surveyor, they must stick to mutually acceptable standards. In addition to these skills, having prior experience in any field of the maritime industry is preferred. Training under an experienced surveyor is the best method to pick up essentials and valuable skills.

Salary and Perks for Marine Surveyors

The enormous responsibility of determining the condition of a ship is by no means an easy job. Livelihoods, industries, and large amounts of money hang in the balance waiting for the marine surveyor’s approval. Being thorough is a necessity, as any error on their part can affect the global shipping industry. Thus, being adequately compensated for their skills is also a must. The marine surveying industry has specific standards that ensure its members are provided with adequate benefits.

Marine surveyors usually require a minimum of experience in the various industry domains they are tasked to handle. The more the experience, the higher the package they can expect to receive. In addition, certifications from prestigious institutes can also go a long way in ensuring that clients value your opinion. Although starting your career as an independent surveyor will ensure you receive your entire fee, you will lack in terms of other perks and benefits organisations can provide you.

The annual salary for a marine surveyor in the USA ranges between $60,426 and $81,974, with the average salary coming in at $70,089. This salary can depend on the size of the vessel to be surveyed, its location, costs you may incur to prepare a report, the cost of travelling etc. Also, enjoying goodwill amongst reputable ship-owning companies will provide you with a good client base. When estimating the average fee or commission per survey, it is crucial not to follow a ‘one size fits all strategy. The perks and benefits enjoyed by surveyors engaged with organisations include medical insurance, rent allowances, travel allowances etc. It also provides them with a network of like-minded individuals involved in the same field.

Report preparation is considered a tricky subject in the marine surveying industry. It can be the make-or-break component in any surveyor’s career. A well-written and detailed report would increase their client base through word-of-mouth marketing. On the other hand, a poor report could also effectively tank their prospects. Thus, most marine surveyors go to great lengths to learn the skill of report writing.

The essential points to look out for include language that is easy to comprehend, a detailed analysis of the various areas of the vessel, photographs or other visual media to emphasise a particular finding, and concisely preparing a report. Most clients find reading bulky and oversized reports to be counterproductive. They prefer to avoid surveyors who use too many words to convey a simple concept. Writing succinct reports that even laypeople can understand will go a long way in attracting more customers.

The marine surveying job also features benefits that go beyond the monetary aspects. It is a prestigious occupation that allows you to utilise your skills even after you retire from active sailing. It is also an opportunity to pass on knowledge to other individuals and actively connect with them.

The bottom line is that this industry presents a fantastic chance for motivated individuals to face new daily challenges that put their skills to the test. Based on your marketing and performance, you may be able to make much more than the industry average. It is essential to realise that this field has no fixed salary or income, unlike other industries. Although the above figures are based on extensive studies and research, the actual values may differ depending on your expertise and geographical location.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is the job of a marine surveyor.

The primary responsibility of a marine surveyor is to conduct thorough and extensive surveys of vessels. Before the delivery of a new ship, such surveys are essential to ensure the proper functioning of all onboard systems and guarantee the vessel’s seaworthiness.

2. How do you become a US Marine Surveyor?

Marine surveyors are needed to have a certain amount of experience in the several industry domains they are trained to handle. The more experience and projects are completed, the better the salary package. Additionally, maritime institutes’ certifications can help get clients’ trust.

3. What are some of the surveys conducted by marine surveyors?

Some of these surveys include marine warranty surveys, charter surveys, flag state surveys, offshore structural surveys, hull and equipment surveys and cargo surveys.

4. What is AC and V Survey?

A repurchase survey is conducted when someone is thinking of buying a vessel. It is quite a comprehensive ‘Condition and Valuation’ or C&V Survey that incorporates operational testing of all the onboard equipment and includes a sea trial of the vessel in question. Also, the ship is inspected thoroughly, both inside and out.

5. What is the need for a marine survey?

A marine survey is essential for determining what repairs or upgrades are required so a vessel might operate under safe conditions at sea. Marine surveys ensure that all systems onboard vessels run smoothly, so there are no accidents, loss of life or property at sea. They also help to know the actual value of a boat or vessel.

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About Author

Ajay Menon is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, with an integrated major in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture. Besides writing, he balances chess and works out tunes on his keyboard during his free time.

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• Marine surveyors

Accredited marine surveyors are highly trained professionals who are responsible for ensuring the safety and accuracy of marine vessels. They inspect ships, yachts, and other watercrafts to make sure they are safe and seaworthy. To become an accredited marine surveyor, there are several qualifications and requirements that must be met. This article will provide an in-depth look at the qualifications and requirements of becoming an accredited marine surveyor, as well as the benefits that come with such a prestigious title. A marine surveyor is also responsible for assessing the condition of a vessel, including its construction, equipment, and systems, as well as determining the cost to ship a jetski .They also evaluate the safety of a vessel and advise owners on any repairs or upgrades needed.

To become an accredited marine surveyor, applicants must complete a course of study approved by the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS). This includes learning about shipbuilding and surveying techniques as well as understanding the legal requirements for maritime operations. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written exam to receive their NAMS certification. Once a marine surveyor is certified, they must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses or attending industry conferences.

They must also adhere to the NAMS code of ethics which includes acting in an ethical manner when conducting surveys. Marine surveyors must be knowledgeable about different types of vessels, their construction materials, and the various components of each type of vessel. They should have a good understanding of boat design and the physics of sailing as well as knowledge of marine engines and propulsion systems. Additionally, they must be familiar with navigation systems and safety regulations.

Qualifications for Becoming an Accredited Marine Surveyor

Technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, what does a marine surveyor do, attention to detail.

This includes inspecting mechanical systems, plumbing, hulls, electrical systems, navigation systems, and more. An accredited marine surveyor must also have the ability to read technical specifications and interpret them accurately. It is important for accredited marine surveyors to have an in-depth knowledge of the relevant regulations and laws in their region, as well as the ability to detect any potential safety hazards. They must also keep up to date with changes in technology and regulations in order to ensure they are providing the best service possible. A marine surveyor must also have good communication skills in order to effectively explain their findings to clients. In conclusion, becoming an accredited marine surveyor is a challenging but rewarding profession.

It requires specialized training, ongoing education, and strong technical and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of boats and regulations is essential in order to ensure maritime safety. Accredited marine surveyors can provide valuable insight into the condition of boats which can help owners make informed decisions about repairs or upgrades. The qualifications for becoming an accredited marine surveyor involve technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and a keen attention to detail. Becoming an accredited marine surveyor requires dedication and commitment to the profession and a passion for the water.

With the right qualifications, you can be on your way to becoming an accredited marine surveyor.

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Join BOCMS and become a Certified Marine Surveyor!

Job listings.

Looking for your next appraisal assignment? Members can access employment opportunities throughout the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands today. Are you an employer requiring an IACP Certified Master Marine Surveyor on an appraisal?

Certification Courses

BOCMS certification courses incorporate the principles of USPAP in our certification program. Exams are derived directly from educational and training materials provided by BOCMS and include ethics & standards created by the Uniform Standards of Appraisal Practices.

Bureau of Certified Marine Surveyors - #1 Online Marine Surveyor / Boat Appraiser School

Obtain 40-hour iacp accreditation.

• Become an IACP Certified Marine Surveyor in 40 Hours.
• Start your own Independent Marine Surveyor / Appraisal Business.
• Minimum startup costs – Cell Phone, Laptop Computer, Printer, and Website.
• Potentially earn $150K+ income working part-time – set your own hours.
• Retained by Attorneys, Insurance Companies, Corporations and Private Individuals.
• Provide your clients with the most accepted boat appraisal reports in the industry.
• Testify confidently at Depositions, Mediations, Bench and Jury Trials.
• Learn Law for Appraisers, Insurance Adjusters, and Expert Witnesses.
• Diminished Value, Total Loss, Classic Boat Appraisals and more.
• Banks & Credit Unions are now requiring IACP Certified Marine Surveyor Appraisals.
• Complete IRS Form 8283 for Non-Cash Charitable Donation Appraisals of $5,000+
• Declare Damaged Boats to be Repairable or Total Loss.
• Comply with BOCMS & USPAP Standards when appraising for profit.
• Secure login access to NADA, AuctionNet, Manufactured Homes, and other valuation guides.
• Employment opportunities and appraisal assignments – (For members only)

The Bureau of Certified Marine Surveyors Independent Appraiser Certification Program, (IACPSM) is designed to promote self-regulation, improved quality documentation, and to enhance the integrity and prestige of the marine surveying industry. IACPSM Certified Appraisers are recognized nationwide as dedicated professionals who are knowledgeable in a wide variety of marine appraisal and industry related valuation services and practices.

IACPSM Certified Master Marine Surveyors mayn have experience surveying and appraising fine vessels including: Trawlers, Motoryachts, Sportfishing Boats, Cruisers, Sedans, Sailboats, and various types of Cargo Inspections for Legal and Certified requirements such as Insurance Claims, Total Loss, Boat Damage Estimates, Boating Accidents, Stolen Boats, Bank Loans, Pre-Purchase Inspections, Court Ordered Appraisals, Actual Cash Value, Divorce Appraisals, Estate Appraisals, Probate Appraisals, and Lawsuits.

Credit Unions, Banks, Courts, Insurance Companies, Attorneys, Corporations, CPA’s, Government Agencies, and Boat owners are now requiring IACP Certification.

IACP Certification is preferred for Legal and Certified appraisals such as: Personal Property Valuation, Insurance Claims, Total Loss, Damage Estimates, Stolen Boats, Bank Loans, Pre-Purchase Inspections & Surveys, Court Ordered Appraisals, Actual Cash Value, Total Loss, Divorce Appraisals, Estate Appraisals, Probate Appraisals, Investment Appraisals, Manufactures Defects, Consumer Protection Lawsuits, Class Action Lawsuits, Criminal and Civil Lawsuits.

IMCA annual report highlights inadequate control on confined spaces

Analysis of more than 1,600 vessel inspection reports in year to 1 April this year reveals ongoing safety concerns over

NEW: Yacht Coatings Technical Insight course

The Marine Surveying Academy, a subsidiary of the International Institute of Marine Surveying, is delighted to announce the success of

RMCI five-year Revalidation gets underway

The purpose of the revalidation process is to ensure Inspectors are competent to continue as an RMCI. The RMCI revalidation

RMCI Qualification Course Dates 2023

We are pleased to announce the latest RMCI course dates for 2023. The RMCI Qualification is ready to deliver in

Two new executive Directors appointed to MSA

As part of a restructure, the Marine Surveying Academy Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Directors,

MSA launches four new specialised courses

The Marine Surveying Academy has announced four new specialised courses on behalf of its parent company, the International Institute of

MSA releases CMID AVI accreditation training dates

It has been announced by the MSA that there will be seven CMID AVI Accreditation Courses in the first half

RMCI 2016 course dates announced

MSA has announced the first two dates for its Registered Marine Coatings Inspectors courses in 2016. With over 50 qualified

Launch date for CMID accredited vessel inspectors scheme announced

The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) chose the final day of Ocean

RMCI course set to launch via MSA

Until the Registered Marine Coatings Inspectors (RMCI) qualification was introduced, there were no specific qualifications for marine coatings Inspectors. There

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The IIMS is an award-winning, recognised educator of marine surveyors and has been doing so successfully for more than 15 years. The Institute is committed to delivering the best education for existing yacht and small craft marine surveyors and is passionate about developing the next generation of surveyors.  The yacht and small craft professional qualification marine surveying course material is current, accurate and is regarded to be the best material of its kind anywhere in the world. Furthermore, IIMS is the only professional body to offer a formal marine surveying qualification. It has been produced by authors who are passionate and knowledgeable about their specialism and who are recognised experts in their fields. The course has been written to produce the best possible learning outcome for those who study it.

The Yacht & Small Craft Professional Qualification in Marine Surveying  course allows you to decide when and where you want to study.

To achieve the qualification you are required to study and pass four CORE units plus an additional four SPECIALIST units of your choice from the ten that are available. Students have two years to complete the course. It is then possible to upgrade your qualification to an Advanced Professional Qualification in Yacht & Small Craft Marine Surveying. This means a further one year of study and an additional four SPECIALIST units to pass.

If you travel, you can take the units with you to continue studying and make good use of your travelling time.

The benefits of studying with the Institute are that you become a Student Member of the Institute whilst training and you can, therefore, participate in all the Institute activities, including one-day training courses, seminars and conferences.

One of the most beneficial factors of distance learning study is that you apply your learning immediately. So, as the course progresses you can apply the knowledge, skills and expertise gained to your work.

Click any of the links below for more information on a specific unit.

The CORE Units Core Unit 1: Introduction to Marine Surveying Core Unit 2: Materials and Corrosion (Unit is in two parts) Core Unit 3: Stability Core Unit 4: Report Writing

The SPECIALIST units Specialist Unit 18: Marine Incident Investigation Specialist Unit 21: Marine Coatings Specialist Unit 23: Inspecting Yacht & Small Craft Engines Specialist Unit 24: Surveying Small Craft Systems & Mechanical Installations Specialist Unit 25: Surveying FRP Craft Specialist Unit 26: Surveying Steel & Aluminium Alloy Small Craft Specialist Unit 27: Surveying Inland Waterway Narrowboats Specialist Unit 28: Inspecting Small Craft Rigs & Sails Specialist Unit 29: Surveying Wooden Craft Specialist Unit 31: Maritime Law & Insurance Specialist Unit 32: Hulls & Machine Damage Claims Specialist Unit 35: Business Management

Student comments Read what past students who have studied with IIMS have had to say.

‘Many thanks for the feedback and all your support over the duration of the course. To say that I am delighted is an understatement as I am over the moon with delight’. Mr J O’Sullivan ‘I would like to thank all involved in the very valuable and excellent course. I certainly lived up to my expectations and more’. Mr G Parrotte ‘Thank you for the opportunity to take part in the course. I have really enjoyed completing the assignments. It was a very thorough and well thought out introduction to the marine surveying profession’. Mr K Butterfield

Read the course prospectus: Yacht & Small Craft Professional Qualification in Marine Surveying Prospectus

Click to register your interest in the IIMS Professional Qualification in Yacht & Small Craft Marine Surveying

Or if you are ready to apply (no money is required at this stage) please go to the online application form.

Read the Course FAQ’s

Instagram Posts from the IIMS @iimsmarine

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ABYC Certification: A Benchmark in Marine Technical Education

When customers search for top-notch marine technicians, ABYC Certification stands out. Our nationally accredited program hones the skills of technicians and enhances safety by developing comprehensive knowledge of ABYC Standards.

ABYC Certification Highlights

• Nationally accredited program
• Certifications in Marine Systems, Marine Electrical, Marine Corrosion, Marine Engines and Fuel Systems, ABYC Standards, and A/C refrigeration.
• Master Technician credential for those with 3+ certifications

Join over 4,500 marine technicians who have stamped their commitment to safety with ABYC’s Certification.

For Businesses: Commit to Excellence

In the marine industry, the strength of your business is often measured by the skills of your technicians. Solidify your position as a trusted leader in boat service and repair.

• Demonstrated Commitment to Industry Standards
• Enhanced Credibility
• Increase Customer Loyalty

For Individuals: Do Your Work to the Standards

Stand Out with ABYC Certification. Deliver peace of mind to every boater by maintaining the highest levels of safety, reliability, and performance on the water

• Continuous Learning
• Gain Industry Credibility
• Boost Your Career

Professional Certifications Include:

Marine standards, marine systems, marine corrosion, marine electrical, marine composites, a/c refrigeration, advanced marine electrical, marine engines and fuel systems, service management, how to become abyc certified.

Classes are taught by industry professionals/ABYC Certified Technicians and held around the world and online. ABYC Certifications are verified by the third party NOCTI Business Solutions, ensuring relevance and value. Exams are all multiple-choice questions measuring your knowledge in different areas. Upon passing, certifications are active for 5 years.

How to Earn a Professional Certification

• Take a Certification course – View calendar
• Self-study and test with a proctor – Learn more here

Recertification

To maintain your ABYC Professional Certification you must take the shorter recertification exam and fulfill a CEU requirement. Recertification is a simple process that re-establishes your educational standing in the industry.

On-site Courses

ABYC Business members can choose to host its own in-person or virtual class. Businesses can host the location and fill the course with their own attendees for a set price to ABYC, which includes the study guides, exams and a dedicated instructor.

Certification Designations

ABYC recognizes that many different types of marine industry professionals desire ABYC professional certifications, however not all of those individuals are physically working on boats. Many are in an advisory or consulting position and have a need for the same type of knowledge, but lack the practical skills that are necessary by service and installation technicians. ABYC has created certification designations to better associate the type of work being done by the individual.

Advisor Certification

Designed for people who work within the marine service sector that desire an ABYC certification but do not physically work on boats performing repairs.

Examples: Marine surveyors, customer service representatives and engineering standards compliance specialists. 

• Requirements for initial certification: Passing score on certification exam
• Requirements for re-certification: Passing score on re-certification exam + 10 CEUs
• Certifications are valid for 5 years

Technician Certification

Technician certification is the means by which the ABYC and the general public identify those that are actually certified to perform trouble-shooting, repairs and equipment installations on boats.

Examples: Technicians, installers. 

• Requirements for initial certification: Passing score on certification exam + 2 years of work experience.

NOCTI Collaboration: Third-Party Validation

Our collaboration with NOCTI underscores the authenticity and rigor of the ABYC Professional Certification Program. Renowned for its commitment to high-quality assessment and validation services, NOCTI’s third-party validation provides an added layer of credibility to our certifications, emphasizing the program’s alignment with the highest industry benchmarks.

Schedule Your Next Class

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The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors

Home > FAQs

Get Your Questions Answered

Anyone can title him or herself as a Marine Surveyor and start a business. Certain marine surveyors are permitted to use a designation denoting membership in accrediting organizations that require members to meet strict professional, technical and ethical standards.

Surveyors should provide you with a professionally prepared report that can be accepted by your bank and/or insurance company. Talk with prospective surveyors and ask questions! What does the survey include and what type of reporting format is used? Do they use ABYC, NFPA and USCG standards in their surveys? How much will the inspection cost? How long will the onboard inspection take?

A thorough inspection will not be rushed and will depend on the type of survey required based on vessel size, equipment, and onboard systems. There may be additional services available such as engine surveys, oil analysis, galvanic and stray current corrosion testing, ultrasonic testing, moisture testing and other nondestructive tests. There may be additional charges for these and other services.

Well conducted surveys can provide good information on the vessels condition, but they are not guarantees. The surveyor reports the condition in accessible areas only as it exists at the time of inspection.

Why should you have a vessel surveyed? Most insurance companies and banks will require them on older vessels. They will need to know her condition and fair market value in order to finance and/or underwrite the vessel. Knowing her condition and fair market value before you purchase is also important. However, the most important reason to survey your vessel is for the safety of the passengers and crew.

SAMS® has two membership classes of marine surveyors. The Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS®) and the Surveyor Associate (SA). Listed below are the items required to apply for membership. A more detailed description will be included in our Membership Request Packet. If you are interested in becoming a SAMS® member, please send your request to [email protected], and include your full name and mailing address.

If applying as an Accredited Marine Surveyor you will need to submit the following:

• SAMS® Application (included in Membership Packet)
• SAMS® Admissions Exam (included in Membership Packet)
• Submit one survey for each of last five years of active surveying
• Business Card
• Notarized affidavit attesting completion of 12 surveys per year for each of the last five years
• $150.00 non-refundable application fee

If applying as a Surveyor Associate, you will need to submit the following:

• A minimum of one survey report

Marine Surveys are performed for a number of reasons, and the procedures for each vary to best suit your needs.

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 onboard systems, cosmetic appearance, electronics, and overall maintenance as well as an out-of-water inspection and a sea trial.

Insurance Survey 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.

Appraisal Inspection 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, donations and legal cases.

Damage Inspection The surveyor can be retained by an insurance company to determine the cause of a loss and determine the extent of loss related damage and may be asked to recommend repairs, review estimates, and determine the pre-loss value of a vessel. A vessel owner can retain a surveyor for the same purposes, but for the owner’s behalf

Time and additional expense can be saved by preparing the vessel for inspection and making her more accessible.

Arrange to present a clean, shipshape boat, and have all papers and miscellaneous gear ready. If applicable, you will need to make arrangements with the marina to haul the vessel for bottom inspection and retain a captain for sea trials. Lockers and cabin areas should be cleared of all miscellaneous gear.

The surveyor should never be asked to prepare a boat for inspection. The surveyor may request minor dismantling of interior ceilings, headliners, flooring, etc. in order to gain access to the suspected areas. Random removal and examination of below-the-waterline fasteners on wood boats may be required. Any dismantling and reinstallation of parts should be performed by qualified personnel and is the responsibility of the person ordering the survey.

Written authorization from the owner may be needed to board and/or to remove part of the vessel.

ONCE YOU RETAIN THE SURVEYOR, HE OR SHE WORKS ONLY FOR YOU AND REPORTS TO NO ONE ELSE. THE SURVEYOR IS THERE TO PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS!

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