SVC Marine Surveying: Yachts and Small Craft

Weeks 1–6 (Feb 23 – April 3): Marine Surveying Course Instruction

Week 7 (April 6–10): ABYC Marine Standards Certification

Week 8 (April 13–17): ABYC Marine Systems Certification

Week 9 (April 20–24): ABYC Marine Electrical Certification

Marine Surveying Course Overview (Weeks 1-6)

The primary course covers the critical elements of marine surveying, including legal concerns, client agreements, professional ethics, report writing, vessel valuation methods, federal laws, industry standards, and detailed inspections of hulls, decks, superstructures, mechanical and propulsion equipment, electrical systems, and other onboard systems. The material covers essential background knowledge, inspection points, case studies, and practical exercises, culminating in the completion of multiple marine survey reports, including both practical assessments and independent surveys, to prepare students to serve in this crucial role in the marine industry.

After the course concludes, students will independently source vessels to complete marine surveys. Completed surveys, along with collateral materials, will be submitted to the instructor for review and feedback, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and practical application of the skills learned.

ABYC Marine Standards Certification (Week 7)

The ABYC Marine Standards Certification course provides a comprehensive introduction to the structure and application of ABYC Standards, which are essential for marine industry professionals, including repair and maintenance technicians, boat builders, and surveyors. The curriculum encompasses a broad range of critical compliance topics, including AC/DC electrical systems, fuel and ventilation for gasoline and diesel, engine systems, potable water, cockpit drainage, firefighting, and safety systems such as LPG and gas detection. By emphasizing practical application, the course equips participants with the necessary knowledge to effectively implement ABYC standards in their daily work, thereby promoting safety, ensuring compliance, and fostering excellence throughout the marine industry.

ABYC Marine Systems Certification (Week 8)

The ABYC Marine Systems Certification offers a comprehensive understanding of essential marine systems. The course delves into critical topics, including air conditioning, water and sanitation systems, fuel systems, basic electrical theory, battery and charging systems, engine controls, and fire protection. Participants will gain foundational knowledge and enhance their technical skills by exploring installation requirements, design considerations, safety standards, and best practices for components such as thru-hulls, storage tanks, wiring, pumps, and more.

ABYC Marine Electrical Certification (Week 9)

The ABYC Marine Electrical Certification is designed for maritime professionals looking to gain a deep understanding of vessel AC and DC systems. The class will cover essential topics, including electrical fundamentals, proper wiring installation and sizing, multi-meter usage, battery and inverter systems, grounding and bonding, AC shore power and generator operation, as well as critical safety and corrosion prevention protocols.

$200 application fee

$1,500 non-refundable deposit (applied toward tuition, due upon acceptance)

Tuition: $8,500 (includes full course and ABYC Certifications)

Early Payment Discount: Pay in full by December 31 to receive $425 off tuition

Apply Online

Mike is a 30-year marine industry veteran whose passion for boating drives his expertise in boats and marine systems. He combines decades of practical experience with professional training in surveying, electrical, corrosion, marine systems, engines, and more. His experience includes managing service shops, installing and servicing marine systems, and working for suppliers of marine hardware, heating systems, running gear components, propellers, and more. Mike is a faculty member of our Marine Tech Program, leading the development of the marine surveying course. He is also a Technical Instructor for the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and a frequent speaker at industry events, educating boaters and the industry in designing, installing, and maintaining safe and reliable boat systems.

Learn from Industry Experts

Students will benefit from insights shared by experienced professionals across the marine industry, offering perspectives that deepen knowledge of surveying, systems, and best practices.

Many surveyors transition from other roles in the marine industry, often after accumulating years of hands-on experience. Including people who have worked as:

• Boat Builders or Repair Facility Workers: Deep knowledge of construction methods (fiberglass, wood, steel, aluminum), materials, and structural issues.
• Boat Mechanics or Marine Engineers: Expertise in vessel propulsion, main engines (gasoline or diesel), auxiliary machinery, and other mechanical and electrical systems.
• Professional Captains or Crew Members: Extensive operational experience with various boat types and a practical understanding of how systems should function at sea.
• Navy or Coast Guard Veterans: Experience with vessel maintenance, safety, and compliance with regulations.

While it is often the case that surveyors have previous experience in the boating industry, boaters with extensive experience owning and operating vessels have also become marine surveyors. However, additional training and apprenticeships are often required.

The purpose of this course is to provide those who have a good foundation of knowledge with the opportunity to apply it in the context of being a marine surveyor. The course devotes a considerable amount of time to discussing the technical aspects of vessel construction and the systems commonly found on boats. This is meant to strengthen and round out one’s knowledge, rather than start from the beginning, however.

1. Submit your application via Skagit Valley College.
2. Attend an optional orientation or info session.
3. Confirm your acceptance and submit your deposit.

Information Sessions:
Dec 11 @ 5:30 p.m. | Virtual Information Session on Zoom | Register for the Session

A: No. The course is ideal for individuals with experience in the marine industry or strong boating knowledge who wish to expand and apply their skills as a marine surveyor.

A: In addition to the SVC certificate of completion, Attendees will prepare and take three American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification Exams. These include ABYC Marine Standards, ABYC Marine Systems, and ABYC Marine Electrical Certification exams. Obtaining these three certifications earns the additional designation as an ABYC Certified Master Advisor.
For more information about the American Boat and Yacht Council, please see their website at abycinc.org

A: The course is highly interactive and physically engaging. Students will train directly on boats, practicing how to access and inspect real systems in tight spaces and learning to use tools and equipment common to marine surveying. Over the duration of the program, participants will complete up to seven vessel surveys, three with instructor support during the course and four independently after the course. This approach builds both technical skills and the physical confidence needed for real-world inspections.

A: In addition to the technical and administrative aspects of conducting a marine survey, we discuss business practices, ethics, and client agreements as part of the curriculum. While these topics are covered generally, we will not give you specific legal or financial advice on how to start your own business.

A: For the class, you’ll need a computer to complete coursework and take exams. For completing the survey reports, a Windows based computer is highly recommended. We will discuss options in class regarding different software and specialty tools that a Marine Surveyor may find helpful. You will not need to purchase any of these before the class, however.

Surveyors are expected to have a modest set of tools. When you apply, you’ll receive a full list of recommended products. As a reference, a sample list of commonly used supplies, roughly totaling $250, includes:

• Good tool bag (canvas or soft-sided)
• Allen wrenches
• 8 oz ball peen hammer
• Calipers
• Crescent wrench
• Flashlight
• Headlamp
• Hearing protection
• Inspection mirrors
• Pliers
• Polarity indicators with GFCI
• Putty knife
• 25’ tape measure
• Screwdrivers

 This list is meant to give you an idea of what to expect; the full recommended list will be provided upon application.

A: Students must maintain at least 85% attendance throughout the program. Falling below this standard may result in dismissal and/or failure of the course

Marine Survey Course Refund Policy: A student will receive a 100% refund if the college cancels the class. A student will receive 75% refund if the student officially withdraws 5 weeks prior to the first-class meeting. No refund will be given thereafter and application fees will not be refunded.

A: Classes are held in Anacortes, Washington, at the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s maritime industry. Students will learn at the Skagit Valley College Marine Technology Center and the nearby Marine Technology Extension Classroom, gaining hands on experience in a hub of real world boating and marine operations.

A: Unfortunately, we do not offer housing at our Anacortes campus. Students are encouraged to explore the various hotels and short-term rentals that are available in the Anacortes area.

A: A fall Marine Survey session is tentatively planned to start September 14, 2026. Enrollment for this session will depend on interest and availability and is not guaranteed. We encourage you to register for the winter pilot session as soon as possible to secure your spot in the course.