Business Details
Professional Marine Survey Services in Washington
Salish Nautical Services is a trusted marine surveying firm dedicated to delivering professional, ethical, and high-quality assessments for yachts, small craft, and commercial vessels. Founded by Steve Hayes, a seasoned marine surveyor with decades of experience in aviation, construction, and maritime industries, we prioritize client interests through meticulous inspections and transparent reporting. Our team holds prestigious accreditations from the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), and International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI), ensuring industry-leading expertise. We specialize in pre-purchase surveys, insurance/damage claims, vessel equipment analysis, salvage supervision, and sea trials, all conducted with a commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and client confidentiality.With a career spanning aviation mechanics, marine salvage, and vessel operations, our founder brings unparalleled technical knowledge and passion to every survey. Our competitive rates and personalized service make us a preferred choice for clients seeking reliable marine assessments in Washington and beyond. We pride ourselves on clear communication, timely delivery of reports, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of boat owners and insurers. By adhering to rigorous standards and focusing on client satisfaction, Salish Nautical Services has built a reputation for excellence in the marine surveying industry.
Services
Pre-Purchase Surveys
Insurance Assessments
Damage Claims
Vessel Equipment Analysis
Salvage Supervision
Sea Trials
Marine Consulting
Vessel Repossessions
Highlights and features
- We are accredited by SAMS, ABYC, and IAMI for industry-leading expertise.
- Our founder has 15+ years in aviation mechanics and marine salvage experience.
- Surveys include detailed, confidential reports shared only with the hiring party.
- Competitive hourly rates with transparent cost structures for all services.
- Proven track record with insurance companies accepting our professional assessments.
Associations and certifications
- Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS)
- American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)
- International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI)
What people say
Professional reports
Accurate
Timely
Services
Pre-Purchase Surveys
Our pre-purchase surveys assess a vessel's condition to inform buying decisions. We inspect structural integrity, mechanical systems, and safety compliance, providing detailed reports to protect buyer interests. Services cover yachts, small craft, and commercial vessels.
Insurance Surveys
Insurance surveys evaluate vessel safety and compliance for policy underwriting. We document condition, equipment, and risk factors, ensuring insurers receive accurate data. Reports meet industry standards for coverage approval and claims processing.
Salvage Supervision
Salvage supervision ensures safe and efficient vessel recovery operations. We monitor procedures, document actions, and prepare reports for insurers or owners. Our expertise reduces risks during complex marine salvage efforts.
Sea Trials
Sea trials evaluate a vessel's operational performance and systems under real-world conditions. We assess engine function, navigation, and handling, identifying issues that impact safety or value during pre-purchase evaluations.
People
Steve Hayes
Marine Surveyor
Steve Hayes is a SAMS-accredited marine surveyor with 15+ years in aviation mechanics and marine salvage. He holds an FAA Inspector Authority rating and ABYC certifications, combining technical expertise with hands-on vessel experience to deliver precise, reliable surveys.
Questions
What services does Salish Nautical Services offer?
We provide pre-purchase surveys, insurance assessments, damage claims, salvage supervision, sea trials, and marine consulting for yachts and commercial vessels.
Are your surveyors accredited?
Yes, we hold accreditations from SAMS, ABYC, and IAMI, ensuring industry-standard expertise and professionalism in all surveys.
How are your survey rates structured?
Rates start at $95/hr for sea trials and $140/hr for insurance/damage claims, with travel and expenses billed separately.
Do you serve areas outside Washington?
Our primary service area is Washington, but we may accommodate specific requests depending on location and vessel type.
