Cruisers College

The Marine Surveying: Yachts and Small Craft program combines live online instruction, hands-on training, ABYC certification courses, and independent survey experience to prepare students to conduct condition and valuation surveys on yachts and small craft 65 feet or less.

Online Instruction: Weeks 1–6

Live online classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30–8:30 p.m. (6 hours per week), with approximately 15 hours of independent work outside of class each week.

Students build a foundation in the marine surveying profession, covering legal considerations, client agreements and liability, professional ethics, report writing, condition statements, vessel valuation, federal laws, industry standards, and vessel construction. Instruction includes inspection guidelines, case studies, practical exercises, and the ABYC Marine Standards certification sequence.

In-Person Training: Weeks 7–10

Students train at the Marine Technology Center in Anacortes, WA, Monday through Friday, with full days dedicated to hands-on learning. Training includes laboratory exercises, guest presentations from experienced surveyors, and three instructor-led vessel inspections.

Students develop practical inspection skills covering hulls, decks, and superstructures; mechanical and propulsion equipment; electrical systems; and other onboard systems. They also practice using specialized inspection instruments, including percussion sounding and moisture meters, and participate in a sea trial.

Online Instruction: Weeks 11–16

Live online classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30–8:30 p.m., with approximately 15 hours of independent work outside of class each week.

The final online phase focuses on professional survey report writing and critique, ABYC Marine Systems and Marine Electrical certifications, comprehensive review, and the final examination. Students further develop their ability to document vessel conditions, evaluate findings, and prepare professional survey reports.

ABYC Marine Standards Certification 

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 

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 

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

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

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.

This intensive program combines technical instruction, laboratory exercises, and real-world vessel inspections. Hands-on training covers marine structures, engines and drivetrains, electrical systems, fuel systems, steering, hydraulics, corrosion, and other essential marine systems.

Students complete three instructor-supported vessel surveys during the course and four independent surveys afterward, for a total of seven. The program also includes guest presentations from experienced marine surveyors.

Completing the program does not automatically confer professional marine surveyor certification. The course provides the education and practical experience needed to begin pursuing professional credentials through organizations such as the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) or the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS). Each organization has its own requirements.

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.

Live online classes are generally held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time via Zoom. Additional evening sessions may occasionally be scheduled Monday through Thursday during that time window, with advance notice.

Students also complete independent coursework through Canvas, including recorded lectures, readings, assignments, quizzes, and survey reports. Plan for approximately 15–20 hours per week of independent work, in addition to scheduled live instruction.

Many students can continue working during the online portions of the program. However, the four consecutive weeks of in-person training require full-time attendance in Anacortes. Students should arrange time away from work before enrolling.

You’ll need a reliable internet connection and a computer to attend live online classes, complete coursework, and take exams. A Windows-based computer is highly recommended for preparing survey reports.

Software and specialized marine surveying tools will be discussed during class. You do not need to purchase specialized software or tools before the program begins.

In-person training takes place in Anacortes, Washington, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on scheduled training days. The four weeks include classroom instruction, labs, and practical vessel inspections.

Students must maintain at least 85% attendance. Falling below this requirement may result in dismissal or course failure.

For questions about the program, enrollment, or upcoming course dates, please contact:

Mike Reese
Skagit Valley College
Mike.Reese@skagit.edu