Who (or What) is MarineSurveyor.com?

MarineSurveyor.com is a directory website featuring an international database of credentialed marine surveyors from multiple organizations worldwide. It serves as a resource for individuals seeking marine surveyors and provides information about the practice and disciplines of marine surveying.

What is a Marine Surveyor?

A marine surveyor acts as an objective consultant, similar to a home inspector and appraiser combined for boat purchases. They perform thorough inspections, identify deficiencies, and may specialize in areas such as commercial inspection, damage claim investigations, or valuation services.

Why get a Marine Survey?

Obtaining a marine survey before purchasing a boat is standard practice among experienced boaters. The survey report serves as a negotiation, planning, and budgeting tool, often identifying maintenance issues or deficiencies that could result in significant expenses if left unaddressed.

How much does a marine survey cost?

The cost of a marine survey varies based on factors such as the size and type of the vessel, its age, the scope of the survey, location, and the surveyor's experience. Additional services like sea trials or specialized inspections may incur extra charges.

What are the types of marine surveys?

Common types of marine surveys include pre-purchase surveys, insurance surveys (also known as Condition and Value surveys), appraisal inspections, damage claim investigations, engine inspections, rigging inspections, coatings inspections, and various commercial marine inspections.

How does one become a marine surveyor?

Becoming a marine surveyor typically involves choosing a professional organization, such as the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS®) or the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS®), and pursuing relevant education and training. Practical experience and continuous learning are essential components of the profession.

What is SAMS® (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors)?

SAMS® is an international organization that maintains ethical and educational oversight of its member surveyors. It offers designations such as Surveyor Associate (SA) and Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS®) to qualified professionals.

What is NAMS (National Association of Marine Surveyors)?

NAMS is a professional organization that offers designations including Apprentice, Associate, and Certified Marine Surveyor. It provides training and upholds standards for marine surveyors globally.

Who Should Use This Database

Welcome! I’m Geoff Grainger, a full-time practicing marine surveyor since 2010. I took over this site in 2021 to develop it into a valuable resource—for boat buyers, owners, marine surveyors, underwriters, adjusters, and attorneys. Whether you’re seeking a surveyor or diving into the profession, you’re in the right place.

Boat Buyers / Boat Owners

Need a marine surveyor?
We list only credentialed professionals—members of SAMS®, NAMSGlobal, or IAMI®—so you can trust the expertise. Just click “Find a Surveyor” to get started.

New to marine surveying?
Curious about what a surveyor does or why one is important? Explore our FAQs for quick answers from someone who’s been right where you are.

Thinking of becoming a marine surveyor?
It’s a rewarding career with growing demand—and yes, that’s great news for you. We’re building dedicated resources to help you embark on this path.

Marine Surveyors

I’m a marine surveyor. Why do I need MarineSurveyor.com?
Because when boat buyers, owners, or professionals are searching for surveyors, this is where they look. Our database helps people find qualified surveyors near them—so being listed means more opportunities for you.

Plus, with a Featured Listing, you can showcase more details about your services and stand out from the crowd.

Adjusters, Underwriters & Attorneys

Need a qualified expert for your case or project? Find marine surveyors specializing in:

Insurance underwriting / Condition & Value reports
Damage investigations & claims
Expert witness testimony
Cause-of-loss / failure analyses
Appraisals (estate, divorce, donation)
Pre-purchase evaluations
Commercial inspections (e.g., draft surveys, barge/container inspections)

If you’re unsure what you need or how to start, our FAQs and resource links can guide you.

Find A Surveyor