Located in Benton Harbor, Michigan
Reginald L Levy
Accredited Master Marine Surveyor # 21023
Accredited Accident and Fraud Investigator
Call/Text: 216-849-2152
Email: yachtsmansurvey@gmail.com
Services
Our certified and accredited marine surveyors provides six professional surveys to our clients which consist of a pre - purchase, condition and valuation, insurance, appraisal, damage survey and much more. We encourage the hiring client(s) to engage with there surveyor and present any questions.
Please review the services listed below for a description of our services. Thank you for considering Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC and we look forward to preparing a quote for you. Feel free to text us for an immediate reply or email your questions to yachtsmansurvey@gmail.com
How much time does a marine survey take to do?
Normally between 3-8 hours. It just depends on the boat size and condition. If the boat is extremely simple and clean, it’ll take less time and of course a boat that is the same size in poor condition, dirty, or full of extraneous stuff, or complicated systems will take longer. But rest assured that no matter the boats condition; I will take my time and get the job done no matter the time. As I am inspecting the boat I am making notes, photographing, testing and recording that information to my note pad, laptop or iPad. That way, I can get the report back to you quickly.
Pre-Purchase vs Condition and Valuation Survey
A full survey is the most common type of boat or yacht inspection whether it is a Pre-purchase or Condition and Valuation Survey. These two comprehensive surveys involve a detail-oriented, stem to stern inspection which is intended to discover and report all problems that might be intentionally or unintentionally concealed. The Pre-purchase Survey involves an in-depth inspection of the vessel’s structure, propulsion systems, plumbing, electrical, cosmetic components, and any other systems, accessories, or add-ons installed in the vessel.
The Pre-purchase Survey is primarily a visual inspection, this survey is performed by climbing through compartments, searching under hatches and covers, accessing and testing wiring, waste, and water components, and providing a detailed, written record of what needs to be repaired in order to make the boat seaworthy and safe.
The Condition and Valuation Survey includes a visual inspection of the vessel’s overall condition, cosmetic issues, fluid checks, and general care and maintenance. The Condition and Valuation Survey does not involve the in-depth investigation, sea trial, or reporting included in a Pre-Purchase Survey.
Both the Pre-purchase or the Condition and Valuation Survey results can be used to negotiate a better price or to abandon the purchase altogether. For that reason, surveys should be performed before serious negotiations begin. All vessels under a purchase consideration should undergo a marine survey before any final purchase decisions are finalized. It's definitely good money spent!
Pre - Purchase Survey
The most comprehensive of surveys is the pre purchase inspections which aids a buyers decision to pursue the purchase of vessel. This survey includes a current market value appraisal, a sea trial, haul out, and a non-destructive visual inspection that includes testing of the following equipment;
Hull / Deck Inspection
• Structural Integrity
• Electrical Systems
• Fuel Systems
• Exhaust Systems
• Visual Engine Inspection
• Sanitation System
Potable Water System
• Sea Valves
• Tankage
• Bilge Pumps
• All other equipment visible and assessable
• USCG Safety Gear
Condition and Valuation Survey
This condition and valuation survey is requested by a interested buyer in another state opposite of the vessel or an insurance company from time to time to ensure the vessel is properly maintained, safe, and insured to its current value. These surveys include a current market value appraisal, an inspection of the following to ensure the vessel is safe;
• Sea Valves
• Bilge Pumps
• Sanitation Systems
• Exhaust Systems
• Fuel Systems
• Electrical Systems
• Engines Power Up
• Signs of damage or repair
• House Keeping
• USCG Safety Gear
Appraisal Survey
The purpose of this survey is to assign a fair market value to vessel. This survey does not assess the condition of the vessels hull, superstructure, decks, propulsion system, electrical system, or fuel system.
Damage Survey
This is to assess the extent of the damage sustained by the hull, rig, systems, or elsewhere on the vessel. The report presents information on the probable causes of the damage, recommendations on repairs, and estimates the costs for such work. Boats get damaged.
Haul Out Survey
This short survey is a visual inspection of the bottom and running gears. To detect bad repairs or delamination of the bottom. Testing of the running gears includes a scratch test.
• Shafts
• Struts
• Cutlass Bearings
• Rudders
• Propellers
Oil Anaylsis
An oil analysis will show if the engine(s) has any water intrusion, metal shavings, clutch wear or indication of gear wear. This information is vital to a pre-purchase survey when considering a used boat. Typically this information can be obtained within 24 hours of submitting the oil sample.
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Pre-Purchase Consultation
This short inspection includes a 1 hour walk through of the vessel or phone call regarding the vessel. Helping advise the buyer if the vessel is fit for continuation of purchasing process.
Insurance Survey
A marine insurance survey is requested by the potential insurer. This information will help the insurer uncover any underlying issues with your boat and determine what upgrades are needed to get the vessel into a safe operating condition. The survey will also establish the current value of your boat so the right amount of coverage is issued. Most insurance companies request the owner to have this survey completed and submitted for a boating policy.
Underwater Hull Inspection
Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC now offers underwater hull inspections using 4K submersible drone technology — an affordable alternative to hauling your yacht from the water.
Our high-resolution drone provides clear video footage of your vessel’s hull, anodes, propellers, shafts, struts, bow thrusters, outdrives, through-hulls, transducers, and trim tabs — all while the yacht remains in its slip or mooring.
Benefits include:
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Save time and money by avoiding costly haul-outs
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Identify hull blisters, corrosion, or damage early
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Receive professional video documentation and analysis
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Convenient mobile service available throughout Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana
Contact Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC to schedule your underwater hull inspection today.
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Underwater Drone Inspections for Marinas
Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC provides professional underwater drone inspections designed specifically for marinas and waterfront facilities.
Using advanced ROV (remotely operated vehicle) technology, we deliver high-resolution underwater assessments down to 200 meters (650 feet)—far beyond the limitations of diver-based inspections.
With 4K video and photography and three-level lighting up to 2,000 lumens, we capture exceptionally clear underwater imagery in nearly any condition. This allows marina managers to make informed maintenance decisions, improve safety, and prevent costly structural failures.
Contact Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC to schedule your underwater dock, mooring and pier inspection today.
Thermal Imaging Hull & Deck Inspection
Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC now offers thermal imaging inspections as an advanced, non-invasive diagnostic service for vessels of all sizes. Using infrared technology, thermal imaging allows hidden conditions to be identified that may not be visible during a standard visual inspection.
Thermal imaging enhances the accuracy of hull and deck evaluations by detecting moisture intrusion, delamination, voids, insulation failures, and temperature anomalies without destructive testing.
This service is especially valuable for buyers, owners, insurers, and repair planning.
Contact Yachtsman Marine Survey LLC to schedule your underwater dock, mooring and pier inspection today.
The service from Yachtsman Marine Survey is reliable, affordable, accurate and we provide you with an honest detailed confidential survey. We take the "quess work" out of buying a boat. Contact us now to request your quote.