What is a marine surveyor?

It was then I realized that maybe my readers in the Eagle werent quite sure about just what it is I do. There are several disciplines of marine surveying and two self-governing associations of surveyors whose work is recognized by banks, insurance companies and courts of law. There is the National Association of Marine Surveyors (N.A.M.S.) The association to which I belong is the Society Of Accredited Marine Surveyors (S.A.M.S) and both break the disciplines into several distinct fields; Yacht and Small Craft, Hull and Machinery, Engines, Tug and Barge, Fishing Vessels and Cargo. As a candidate for any of the fields one must show experience and competence in that field. The candidate must then be accepted by the admissions board and operate as an Associate under the tutelage of an Accredited mentor for 5 years. At the end of those five years a rather difficult test is proctored. A candidate who fails to sit for testing at the five years is removed from the roster. My chosen ...  more

"General Marine Surveyor" means a person of integrity who, guided by previous personal maritime experience, offers his technical expertise as a professional service to shipping, marine associated enterprises and the public. Holding himself to survey Marine or associated property on behalf of interested parties for the purpose of ascertaining particulars of conditions, position or value, while also having regard to their reasonable cause. The General Marine Surveyor recommends remedies to maintain or improve the condition. On completion of a survey, a General Marine Surveyor draws up and submits a formal report, showing particulars and results of the survey. "The practice of General Marine Surveying" means an inspection, examination or survey by a General Marine Surveyor of: (a) Marine property used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on, below, or above water, and excludes aircraft hull and machinery, but includes floats and any other water born support structures. ( ...  more

A marine surveyor is usually a professional mariner, such as a qualified shipmaster, engineer, naval architect or radio officer. They conduct inspections, surveys or examinations aboard ship to assess, monitor and report on the condition of the ship, as well as attending the manufacturers of new equipment intended for new or existing vessels, to ensure compliance with various standards or specifications. Surveys typically include the structure, machinery and equipment (navigational, safety, radio).