Recently, I had my boat surveyed. No, I am not planning on selling it. My insurance company requested a survey prior to renewing my policy. My guess is that because of my boat’s age (38 years), they wanted to make sure it was still in decent condition before continuing coverage. For me, it wasn’t really a problem because I know that I take pretty good care of my vessel. Of course, I would have preferred not having to pay for a survey, but that’s a different issue.
A survey required for insurance purposes is a little different from a survey that might be done prior to the sale of a boat. A potential buyer is interested in everything about the boat. They want to know if it is seaworthy, whether the mechanical and electronic systems are sound, and if the vessel needs any repairs. Insurance companies, on the other hand, are more interested in assessing how safe the vessel is and whether there are any concerns that could potentially lead to a claim.
I am always impressed with the level of detail included in a report from a good marine surveyor, and the report that I received was no exception. It was no surprise to me that my boat is in good shape and has no serious issues. But … there were a couple of findings noted in the report.
Finding #1: The float switch on the forward bilge pump (located below the salon floor) was not operational. The pump itself was working when activated by the helm switch override.
Every time I get on my boat, I run through a series of checks. One of those checks is making sure the bilge pumps are operational. I flip the switch at the helm for each pump and verify that I can hear it running. From time to time, I also perform additional checks. For example, if I am in the bilge changing the engine oil, I’ll make sure there is no debris that could jam the float switch and confirm that the switch moves freely.
As you can see, the forward bilge pump was working, but the float switch was not. While I always check to make sure the pump itself is functioning, I honestly don’t remember the last time I checked the float switch on that forward pump. It is located in a compartment by itself, which means the only reason I ever go into that space is to check or service the bilge pump system.
Finding #2: The carbon monoxide detector in the aft cabin did not power up when tested.
My boat has two carbon monoxide detectors. One is on the forward bulkhead near the V-berth, and the other is in the aft cabin. I mainly use the aft cabin for storage and only go in there when I need to retrieve a case of water or spare life jackets. I have been diligent about making sure the carbon monoxide/smoke detector on the forward bulkhead is always in working order. Clearly, I neglected the one in the aft cabin. In fact, I think I had almost forgotten it was there.
Of course, both of these issues have now been resolved. But the experience got me thinking: How can I do a better job of ensuring that my boat is as safe as possible?
I am certainly not planning to hire a surveyor every year to inspect my boat. But I can conduct my own review – and so can you. At least once a year, you can perform a complete safety review of your vessel and make sure everything is working properly. In many ways, you can do most of the same things a surveyor does to confirm that your boat is ready for the water.
Are you an expert? Maybe not. Will your review carry the same weight as one from a certified professional surveyor? Probably not. But is it good enough to give you peace of mind about the safety of your boat?
Absolutely.
And it just might save your boat or even your life.
