INSPECTING FIBERGLASS BOATS

A professional approach to assessing fiberglass boats.

Fiberglass boats have problems that are as varied—and as difficult to detect, assess, and repair—as those associated with wooden boats. Hydrolysis, osmotic blistering, delamination, core deterioration, and a host of other complex problems can develop as a fiberglass boat ages. Although some of these conditions may be purely cosmetic, many are ultimately of structural concern.

This course covers the various materials and methods used to construct and repair fiberglass boats typically found on the used-boat market, e.g., hand layup, vacuum-bagging, and resin infusion. Attendees will learn how to detect hull and deck molding problems, and how to assess their effect on boat safety and value. Since fiberglass moldings represent less than half of the cost of the typical sailing auxiliary or power cruiser, knowledgeable surveyors must also be familiar with all the other components of the vessel being inspected. As time permits, your instructor will also address hull and deck fittings, spars and rigging, propulsion and controls, tanks, piping, electrical installations, and miscellaneous equipment.

Lectures and discussions will be held in the Boathouse classroom each morning, with visits to various local builders and yards each afternoon to observe fabrication methods and put your own surveying skills to use.

While this course is tailored to the needs of a practicing marine surveyor, it will also prove invaluable to those in allied work—including boat builders, repairers, insurance underwriters and adjusters, yacht brokers, and those in government regulatory agencies—as well as anyone who owns or is planning to purchase a fiberglass boat.

Tuition: $750