Vancouver Island Marine Surveying Blog

In the world of marine surveying, we often say that a surveyor is only as good as their eyes. But even the most seasoned professional can’t see through a fiberglass hull or detect a loose wire buried deep inside a main distribution panel. That’s where Infrared Thermography (IRT) comes in. Over the last few years, thermal imaging has transitioned from a high-end luxury to an essential tool in my kit. It allows us to perform Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) by capturing the heat signatures emitted by an object. If there’s a problem, there’s usually a heat signature associated with it. Here is how we are using thermography today to keep vessels safe, efficient, and seaworthy. 1. Identifying Moisture and Delamination in Hulls For FRP (fiberglass) boats, moisture is the silent enemy. Traditional moisture meters are great, but they are one data point.  Surveys are most effective when multiple data points can be assembled to make a fulsome assessment of the vessel.  A thermal camera a...

In the world of sailing, the rudder is more than a steering mechanism; it is a primary control surface that dictates the vessel’s "feel," its ability to track upwind, and its safety in heavy weather. Designing a sail boat's rudder requires a specialized understanding of how heeling forces and hydrodynamic lift interact with various construction materials. The Dynamics of Helm and Balance Unlike motor vessels, which generally remain upright, a sailing vessel operates at varying angles of heel. This change in geometry shifts the center of effort and affects the rudder’s efficiency. The "balance" of a sailing rudder—the percentage of surface area forward of the stock—is a critical design choice. A balanced spade rudder (20–30% area forward) reduces the physical effort required by the helm, providing a light touch even when the boat is powered up. Conversely, a less balanced or unbalanced rudder provides more "feedback," allowing the sailor to feel the p...

A vessel's keel is not merely a counterweight; it is a critical structural appendage that defines the vessel’s hydrodynamic efficiency and ultimate stability. Understanding the nuances of keel design and the rigors of its maintenance is essential for ensuring both the longevity of the hull and the safety of the crew. The following guide outlines the primary keel configurations, material considerations, and the technical protocols for maintaining structural attachment. Primary Keel Configurations Keel selection is a balance of lateral resistance, center of gravity (CG), and wetted surface area. Full-Length Keels: Common in traditional blue-water cruisers. The keel integrates directly into the hull's lines, providing superior directional tracking and protecting the rudder and propeller from debris. Fin Keels: Characterized by a high aspect ratio, fin keels offer reduced drag and improved maneuverability. However, they exert higher concentrated loads on the keel-to-hull joint ,...