Marine Surveys

Cat-Check

Our Services

jsands@catchek.co

(800) 539-0810

49 N Federal Hwy. #333

Pompano Beach, FL

Most catamarans use some type of hull coring and we employ the latest techniques and technology to inspect the hull and structure. This includes advanced moisture meters, infrared thermography, and ultrasonic testing.
 
We complete a basic rigging survey including going aloft. We specialize in sailing catamarans and we feel inspecting the rigging (including aloft) is necessary to adequately inspect the boat. You do not need to hire a separate rigger to get an adequate inspection of the rigging.

Our experience with catamarans!  Catamarans are built differently from most other boats.  They differ in many ways including the type of construction and structure, the amount and type of systems on board, they are used differently and for a different purpose than most boats, and they are built in different regions of the world – each with a specific way of doing things.  We know and understand these difference and best evaluation of the boat having a thorough background in this type of boat.


The Physical Inspection:

The physical inspection occurs during 3 distinct phases of the survey:  The in-water portion, the out-of-water portion, and the sea-trial or trial run phase.   While we cover specific things in each phase of the survey, each phase of the survey is used in conjunction with the other phases.  For example, when inspecting the propulsion system, I complete a “cold check” or visual inspection when dockside, we run and inspect on the trial run, and then during the out-of-water portion, I inspect the running gear.
 
Out of water Inspection:  the out-of-water inspection usually takes 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the boat, its condition, and the type of hull construction. During the out of water inspection the surveyor completes the following types of inspections:

Visual inspection of the hull, appendages, and running gear (propeller, shaft / saildrive rudders). Inspected for damage and other issues.

Percussion testing of the hull (checking for delamination, soft core and other issues with the laminate). 

Moisture Testing using a moisture meter and/or Infrared thermogrpaphy of the hull.
         
In-water Inspection:  The in-water portion of the survey is the most time-consuming part of the process and this is where the most information is gained.  Generally speaking, we cover pretty much everything on the boat however the most obvious systems/assemblies checked are the following:

                              Interior structure and support
                              Interior joinery (cabinetry berthing etc.)
                              Electrical Systems including the generator if equipped
                              Electronics suite
                              Plumbing systems (fresh water, heads, water makers etc.)
                              Mooring gear (anchors and windlass)
                              Engine and transmission visual inspection, cooling system pressure testing, oil analysis
                              Air conditioning and other auxiliary house systems
                              Dingy and other auxiliary equipment (dive compressor, kayaks, etc.
                              Safety Equipment (life jackets, bilge pumps, flare kits etc.)
                              Galley systems (refrigeration, stoves etc.)
                              Tanks (fuel, water, waste)

Sea-Trial / Trial Run:   The sea-trial usually last 1 to 2 hours depending on the locations, conditions and the complexity of the boat.  The main aspects covered during the sea-trial are the following:
                        
                              Operation and visual inspection of the sailing gear and sails
                              Steering system
                              Additional electronics testing including the auto-pilot
                              Engine operation during both cruise and “full power” settings and crankcase pressure
                                   (pending on the engine model).
While not set in stone as part of the survey, we do try to give you a brief introduction into the operation of the boat and some of the things that are different or require special attention depending on the make/model of the boat.

The Report and Deliverables:

The physical inspection usually takes one day however sometimes two or more are needed depending on the size or complexity of the boat and sometimes logistics require a second day.  Either way, once the physical inspection is completed, we usually give a verbal summary of the survey with specific regards to the general condition and the deficiencies noted during the survey. A written report is prepared and usually takes about two business days. The report can be broken up into 3 major parts: The images, the findings and recommendations, and everything else.  The Findings and Recommendations will give you a concise list of all the defects or issues noted during the survey and we feel that this is the most meaningful part of the survey report.

The focus of Cat-Check is Pre-Purchase Surveys on catamarans and other multi-hulls.  A pre-purchase survey is generally considered to be the most comprehensive type of inspection.  Every aspect of the vessel is inspected and evaluated.  In the broadest sense, we inspect the hull and structure, all onboard systems, the propulsion system, and the sails and rigging – basically the entire boat.

Cat-Chek surveys are different from most other surveys in the following ways:

​We complete a basic engine survey: we are not specific engine surveyors however we work with many of the same engines and propulsion systems on a daily basis and are very familiar with how they operate and some of the common problems they have.  We complete a very similar inspection that an engine specific surveyor would cover including the oil analysis.  You do not need to hire a separate engine surveyor to get an adequate inspection of the engine however we may make recommendations to have some issues further investigated.