BoatSurveyReader

How to choose a marine surveyor

The survey is the most important few hundred dollars in a boat purchase. Who writes it matters.

Updated October 26, 2026

Hire your own

Choose a surveyor who works for you, not one suggested by the seller. Brokers often keep lists; that's fine as a starting point, but you should be comfortable that the surveyor's only client is you.

Look for accreditation

Two US professional bodies accredit marine surveyors and publish searchable member directories: the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS)[1] and the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS).[2] Membership tells you the surveyor has met the body's experience and testing requirements.

What it should cost

Surveys are usually priced per foot. BoatUS puts typical pricing around $20 to $22 per foot and suggests asking questions if a quote is far below that.[3] Haul-out fees, engine surveys and travel are usually extra.

Questions to ask before you book

  • Which accreditation do you hold, and how long have you surveyed boats like this one?
  • Will the boat be hauled, and will you be at the sea trial?
  • Do you inspect engines, or should I hire a separate engine surveyor?
  • When will I get the written report, and can I call you with questions afterwards?

Have your survey already?

Upload it and get every finding sorted into fix, negotiate, watch or ignore, with the surveyor's page and words beside each one.

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Sources

  1. Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors, SAMS. Industry group. Accessed 2026-10-26.
  2. National Association of Marine Surveyors, NAMS. Industry group. Accessed 2026-10-26.
  3. 8 Things A Marine Surveyor Wants You To Know, BoatUS. Industry group. Accessed 2026-10-26.

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