Vancouver Island Marine Surveying Blog

  Having additional measurements add to your ORC club certificate or obtaining an ORC International certificate can in many cases improve your outcome on the race course. The first step is to visit the ORC – Canada website and submit your application. Once this is done a measurer will confirm with you the date and time to conduct all your measurements.   You will require a crew of at least 3-4 depending on vessel size in order to support the measurer.   An ORCi certificate isn't just a piece of paper; it makes our local racing as fair as possible.   ORC Canada has dedicated and well qualified staff to support competition in BC and across Canada. To get the most accurate rating possible, the boat must be in its "purest" form. If the measurer arrives up and your boat is still full of half-eaten sandwiches and soggy dock lines, it will be a long day. 1. The "Light Ship" Standard The most common mistake owners make is failing to reach Measurement Tri...

Hull inspections frequently center on the integrity of underwater penetrations. The choice between traditional alloys and modern fiber-reinforced composites is a decision that impacts not only the vessel's maintenance schedule but its long-term structural security. The marine industry has seen a shift from the historical dominance of bronze to high-performance polymers. Below is a comparison to assist owners in making an informed decision when replacing their boats thru-hulls. Fiber-Reinforced Composite (Nylon/Polymer) Modern composite fittings, such as those manufactured from glass-reinforced nylon (e.g., Marelon or TruDesign), have gained widespread acceptance in both recreational and commercial sectors. Key Advantages: Electrolytic Neutrality: Being non-metallic, these fittings are immune to galvanic corrosion and electrolysis. This eliminates the need for bonding to the vessel's sacrificial anode system. Weight Efficiency: Composite assemblies are significantly lighter th...

  The condition of a vessel’s underwater profile is a primary indicator of its overall maintenance history. A "fouled" bottom is more than an eyesore; it increases hydrodynamic drag, compromises fuel efficiency, and can lead to engine overheating by obstructing raw water intakes. When choosing a bottom coating, owners must navigate the technical trade-offs between Ablative and Non-Ablative (Hard) paints. Selecting the wrong product for your operational profile can lead to premature coating failure or a costly "strip-to-gelcoat" restoration down the road. I. Comparative Analysis: Ablative vs. Non-Ablative Coatings The choice between these two systems depends entirely on how—and where—the vessel is used. 1. Ablative (Self-Polishing) Coatings Ablative paints are designed to wear away over time. As the vessel moves through the water, the outer layer of the coating "erodes," constantly exposing fresh biocides. Best Suited For: Coastal cruisers, seasonal boat...

  A common point of inquiry during marine surveys involves the presence of surface discoloration on bronze components—specifically the transition from a bright metallic finish to a blue-green hue. It is critical for vessel operators to differentiate between stable passivating films and active corrosive processes such as de-zincification. While the "pink" hue of de-zincification indicates structural compromise, the presence of a green patina is often a sign of a healthy, self-protecting alloy. The Role of Cupric Carbonate (Verdigris) In high-quality marine bronzes, exposure to a saline environment initiates a controlled oxidation process. This results in the formation of cupric carbonate , the characteristic green film often seen on thru-hulls and fasteners. Unlike de-zincification, which is a subtractive and destructive process, this patina is additive and protective . Once a uniform layer is established, it acts as a microscopic barrier that stabilizes the metal, significa...

  I was recently doing a sea trial and saw a lonely mast sticking out of the water.  This is a sobering reminder to inspect your underwater fittings as you get ready for the start of the busy cruising season. In marine surveying and naval architecture, the hose clamp is a critical mechanical fastener responsible for maintaining the water-tight integrity of the vessel. Failure of these components—particularly in raw water cooling, exhaust systems, or below-waterline penetrations—represents a primary cause of preventable emergencies. Inspection  An inspection goes beyond a visual check for "tightness" - look for the following:  Crevice Corrosion: Frequently occurring in 300-series stainless steel when deprived of oxygen (common in shielded or submerged areas), this manifests as dark pitting or a dull red oxide. Any sign of "bleeding" or staining requires immediate replacement. Mechanical Deformation: Inspect the "housing-to-band" interface. If the housing ...

  If you own a boat with a sail drive, there’s a critical piece of rubber maintaining your boats watertight integrity. As a marine surveyor, I’ve spoken with enough clients to know that the sail drive diaphragm (or hull seal) is one of the most overlooked preventative maintenance items on boats. Here is the reality: while saildrives offer smooth operation and easy installation, that rubber seal has a finite lifespan. Ignoring it isn't just a maintenance lapse; it’s a safety risk. What Exactly Is It? The saildrive unit passes through a large hole in your hull. To keep the water out while allowing the engine to vibrate and move on its mounts, manufacturers use a thick, reinforced rubber gasket. Some systems use a double-seal system . There is a primary inner seal that does the heavy lifting, and a secondary outer seal. There can be a water-sensor alarm fitted between these two layers to warn you if the first line of defense has failed. Service Life  Most manufacturers suggest r...

    As a marine surveyor working on the best coast, I’ve seen a lot of confusion lately regarding radio registration. While most Canadian boaters know about the MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) for their vessel, there is a newer, personal tool that is becoming essential for safety: the Maritime Identity (MI) . If you’re a commercial crew member hopping between tugs or a recreational kayaker exploring the Gulf Islands, here is what you need to know about navigating the National Maritime Information Database . What is a Maritime Identity (MI) in Canada? According to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) , an MI is a unique nine-digit number that identifies you as an individual .   You can read more here Think of it like this: MMSI: Stays with the boat (the vessel's "license plate"). MI: Stays with you (your personal "maritime cell number"). It is programmed into your personal portable maritime radi...