Marine surveys: Are you ready?

Marine surveys aren't just paperwork exercises but technical inspections that are dependent on crew preparedness, with the crew acting as frontline representatives of the vessel.

Crew Readiness

Surveyors rely heavily on the crew’s knowledge, competence and ability to demonstrate that all systems and procedures are not only in place but fully understood and practiced.

A crew’s readiness for marine surveys can reduce delays caused by unanswered questions, avoid unnecessary corrective actions or follow-up inspections and reduce overall operational risk.

This article guides crews in survey preparation to ensure that inspections are efficient, comprehensive and more likely to result in successful outcomes.

Survey Purpose and Scope

Understanding the purpose and scope of each survey type allows the crew to tailor their preparation accordingly and reduce survey-specific oversight. Knowing what each survey entails helps the crew prepare the right documentation, equipment, and vessel areas to ensure a smooth and successful inspection.

Documentation and Records

Having well-organized, current paperwork facilitates the surveyor’s work but also reflects well on the yacht’s operational standards and the professionalism.

Examples of documentation might include:

• Certificates: Flag registration, load line, Class, safety equipment, radio license, etc.

• Service and maintenance records such as detailed logs of main and auxiliary machinery maintenance, servicing of safety gear, lifesaving and fire fighting appliances and lifting gear.

• Logbooks: Engine, bridge, drills, fuel/oil etc

• ISM/ISPS manuals

• Checklists and drills: Muster lists, emergency procedures, recent training exercises.

Miller Marine offers a range of surveys, including:

• Statutory Surveys: Mandated by flag states to ensure compliance with international regulations.

• Independent Surveys: Assess the vessel's condition, value, or damage, including:

• Pre-Purchase Surveys to evaluate a vessel before acquisition

• Condition Surveys for insurance or financial purposes

• Stability, Structural and Damage Surveys

• Noise & Vibration Surveys to assess onboard environmental conditions

• Radio Surveys

• Insurance Surveys: Conducted for insurers to assess risk, determine coverage and set premiums based on vessel condition.

• Yacht Registration Surveys: Ensure the vessel meets the standards for commercial registration, including:

• Commercial compliance

• Document of Compliance (DOC) & Safety Management System (SMS) Audits

Avoid the Shortfalls

Conducting refresher training with your crew to your survey can boost confidence and ensure preparedness. It’s advisable to incorporate contingency planning ahead of marine surveys - anticipating possible follow-up inspections, rectifications, or delays, and ensuring that time, logistics, and budgets are in place to handle them efficiently.

Don’t leave your marine survey outcome to chance. Presenting the vessel honestly without concealing known issues or deficiencies will work to build trust and enhance safety. Proactive preparation not only saves time and expense but strengthens your operational integrity.

Ready for Your Survey?

Surveying is at the heart of Miller Marine and our expertise is highly respected within the industry. Contact us to take the next steps.

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Headquartered in Palma de Mallorca, Miller Marine is an active member of Balearic Marine Cluster.

Marine Consultants, Naval Architects & Surveyors | Palma, Barcelona, Dubai

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