Marine Surveyor Services in Savannah, GA – By Wainui Marine Surveying

Savannah has always been a working waterfront. From the busy terminals at the Port of Savannah to the smaller marinas tucked along the back rivers, the city depends on vessels, cargo, and containers moving safely and efficiently. That is where Wainui Marine Surveying comes in.. We deliver professional, accurate, and timely inspection services for vessels, cargo, and containers.

Led by Tony Fergusson, a seasoned boat surveyor and yacht surveyor with more than 40 years of maritime experience, our Savannah team offers world-class marine surveying backed by global expertise. Whether you require a pre-purchase survey for a yacht, a hull and machinery survey for a commercial vessel, or a cargo damage inspection at the port, we provide the detailed reports that protect your investment.

Why Savannah Chooses Wainui Marine Surveying

Tony’s career has taken him across the globe as a Super Yacht Captain, marine consultant, and NAMS-accredited surveyor. His qualifications include IICL container inspection certification, ensuring compliance with ISO and CSC regulations.

More importantly, he knows Savannah’s waterways. He understands how the tidal flow in the Savannah River can affect hull integrity, how the humid coastal climate accelerates corrosion, and why local knowledge matters when inspecting vessels or cargo here.

Our Marine Surveying Services in Savannah

We provide a full range of services designed for yacht owners, cargo operators, insurers, and shipping companies.

Pre-Purchase Surveys for Yachts and Boats

When buying a yacht or boat in Savannah, a pre-purchase survey is your best protection against unexpected costs. We examine the hull, superstructure, mechanical systems, and safety equipment.
Case example: A client planned to purchase a 44-foot trawler at Isle of Hope Marina. Our inspection revealed hidden corrosion in the fuel tanks and an outdated navigation system. The buyer negotiated a $15,000 reduction in price, offsetting future repair costs.

Condition and Value Surveys

Also known as insurance surveys, these are essential for financing, insurance renewals, or sales. We assess the vessel’s current state, compliance with safety regulations, and fair market value. Our condition and value surveys are widely accepted by insurers and banks.

Hull and Machinery Surveys

From fishing vessels to high-speed yachts, we inspect the hull and onboard systems for integrity, wear, and damage. Our hull and machinery surveys help owners avoid downtime and prevent failures.

Cargo Surveys and Offloading Inspections

Our cargo surveyor services include pre-loading checks, offloading inspections, and full cargo damage surveys. We document the condition of goods, ensuring they meet contractual and shipping requirements.
Example: We inspected a shipment of high-end motorbikes arriving at the Port of Savannah. An offloading inspection revealed minor crate damage. Our documentation allowed the importer to file a prompt insurance claim.

Cargo Damage Inspections

When goods arrive damaged, we perform detailed cargo damage inspections to determine cause and extent. Our reports help with claim resolution and loss prevention.

Container Surveys

We inspect shipping containers for structural integrity, water ingress, and safety compliance. Our container surveys meet IICL, ISO, and CSC standards, and we provide photographic documentation for each inspection.

Consultancy and Refit Oversight

For refits, repairs, or vessel upgrades in Savannah, we offer independent oversight to ensure quality workmanship and adherence to specifications.

Yacht Delivery and Boat Handling Instruction

Tony’s extensive captaincy experience allows us to provide yacht delivery along the East Coast and practical boat handling lessons for new owners.

Our Proven Process

We approach every survey with a structured method:

1. Consultation – Understand your goals and concerns.

2. Inspection – Conduct a detailed on-site survey using industry best practices.

3. Reporting – Prepare a comprehensive, easy-to-read report with photographs and recommendations.

4. Delivery – Provide the completed report within the agreed timeframe, often 24–48 hours for container and cargo inspections.

Case Study – Avoiding a Risky Purchase

A Savannah client was ready to purchase a 50-foot sailing yacht moored at Thunderbolt Marina. Our pre-purchase survey revealed past grounding damage to the keel and misalignment in the shaft. Repair costs would have exceeded $40,000. With our findings, the client withdrew from the deal and later purchased a vessel in excellent condition.

Local Expertise Makes a Difference

Savannah’s maritime environment has its quirks. It has strong currents, high salinity, and storm exposure all take a toll on vessels and cargo. Our surveys factor in these local conditions, giving you accurate assessments and practical advice for maintenance and operation.

Where We Work in Savannah

We provide services at:

• Thunderbolt Marina

• Isle of Hope Marina

• Bahia Bleu Marina

• Savannah Bend Marina

• The Port of Savannah terminals

• Private docks and repair facilities in surrounding areas

We also travel to Hilton Head, Beaufort, Brunswick, Charleston, and Jacksonville for select projects.

Contact Wainui Marine Surveying in Savannah

When you need a yacht surveyor, boat surveyor, or cargo surveyor in Savannah, trust Wainui Marine Surveying. With decades of global experience and local expertise, we ensure your assets are inspected with precision and professionalism. Contact us today to schedule your survey.