Cruisers College

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)

Apply Online

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.

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.

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.

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:

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

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.

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.

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. If you need recommendations, please email communityed@skagit.edu. We have a list of area accomodations that may be a good fit and offer discounts to Marine Survey students

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.