Finding Your Next Boat Is Just the First Step…
Let Us Help You Get the Most Out of Your New Boat
Founded by brothers Jim and Mike Merrick and buoyed by daughter Delaney Merrick, Merrick Marine is uniquely positioned to provide peace of mind for the yacht owner. From the pre-purchase survey, to yacht delivery, to At-The-Helm℠ instruction in your own boat, we can help you get the most out of your time on the water.
Vessel
Survey
It all starts with a comprehensive survey of your boat by a SAMS accredited surveyor. From stem to stern, we will inspect, analyze, and clearly report the condition and value of your boat. We provide detailed reports and we are happy to discuss them with you.
USCG Master
Captains
Not only are we Coast Guard Master Captains, but we have years of experience operating all types of boats. Whether you need a skipper for a day, a delivery to Alaska, or someone to get your boat through the locks so you can focus on getting ready to go racing, you can trust us with your baby.
At-The-Helm℠
Instruction
We want you to get the most out of your boat. To be confident that you can take it anywhere, any time. We’ll teach you how to safely operate your boat, not from a book, or in a classroom, but at the helm of your own boat. Drop the hook, fly the chute—you can do it. Let us show you how.
Marine
Investigation
Sinkings, collisions, damage claims, title research, or vessel repossessions—whether you are an insurer or a vessel owner, Merrick Marine has a unique skill set to provide timely, complete reports and credible in-depth research. We’ll get to the bottom of why you were on the bottom!
OLD SALT OR FIRST TIME BOAT OWNER, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
It was refreshing to see how thorough and knowledgeable he was in performing the survey.
My marine insurance provider suddenly decided to leave the U.S. market which made me need a marine survey for the new carrier fast. To complicate matters it was right before the busy boat show season. I was referred by another sailor to Jim at Merrick Marine and he was able to squeeze me in just in time. It was refreshing to see how thorough and knowledgeable he was in performing the survey. Very agile in crawling all over the boat looking at every detail. After ten years with no marine claims I was frustrated having to go through the process of finding a new insurance carrier. Jim made his part of the process a pleasure. I appreciated the integrity displayed in his written report. Thank-you!
George M. (via Google)
The completeness of your survey was a critical factor
Your survey findings have turned out to be not only very accurate but critical in directing the renovation efforts currently underway. The completeness of your survey was a critical factor in [the boatyard's] willingness to take the project; a sincere thanks.
Spike D. (direct)
Great work!
Professional, polite and a speedy detailed report. Great work!
Scott W. (via Google)
Jim and Delaney did an amazing job…Would highly recommend the services of Merrick Marine.
I was in the process of purchasing a Gemini sailing cat, and Jim and Delaney did an amazing job. Their survey was really detailed and helped set my mind at ease, they were great to work with and answered all my questions. Additionally, some snags came up with regard to financing and Jim went above and beyond in getting them sorted out. Would highly recommend the services of Merrick Marine.
Chris B. (via Google)
One of the best surveyors I’ve ever worked
One of the best surveyors I've ever worked with and I have on several occasions.
Nigel B. (via Facebook)
Use them again? YES!
I am a retired Healthcare Safety Professional, as such I might [be] the slightest bit risk adverse... When Jim and Lori came to survey my new boat I appreciated that they came with the same "eyes" that I would bring to my profession. I really appreciate this thoroughness when it comes to things that impact safety at sea. Their report was clear, and cited the relevant standards. Equally important to me was if the citation had a regulatory (mandatory) or voluntary (Best Practice) basis. This made addressing my "hit list" easy and understandable. Use them again? YES!
Steve M. (via Yelp)
surveyed in a timely manner
They were able to get me surveyed in a timely manner and a less then 12hr(4hr) response time when I had an issue with the insurance company. Thanks Merricks!
Skyler L. (via Google)
They were professional, knowledgeable, and fun to chat with
The pre-purchase survey process was smooth. They were professional, knowledgeable, and fun to chat with. The report they sent afterward was very thorough. Highly recommend!
Winter H. (via Google)
They made the survey and sea trial quite enjoyable and the report was excellent
Jim and his daughter performed a survey on our 2004 Jeanneau 43 DS Iridium (now Ginger). They both were very thorough, professional and friendly and accommodating to our tight schedule. They made the survey and sea trial quite enjoyable and the report was excellent. I would definitely recommend their service. Thanks again Merrick Marine.
Tony I. (via Yelp)
Highly recommended.
Merrick Marine provided a thorough inspection and valuation of a potential purchase. They provided a thorough description of all the findings and discussed solutions. Very communicative and professional organization. Highly recommended.
Dave T. (via Facebook)
Captain Jim Merrick gets our highest possible rating and we do not hesitate to recommend him to one and all.
Hiring Jim was one of the smartest decisions we have made. Firstly, he is a likeable guy and both my wife and I liked him from the get-go. Secondly, he was both knowledgeable of marine systems and he took the time to familiarize himself of all of our boat's major systems. Thirdly, he understood all of the hazards that this little voyage would entail...
Dan G. (via website)
They were informative and professional, but also friendly.
Merrick Marine did the survey on my 1996 Sabre. It was important that I know what needed attention with a vessel this old and I do now feel confident in that. They were informative and professional, but also friendly. I recommend them highly.
Tom M. (via Google)
Jim and Delaney are the real deal
Jim and Delaney are the real deal. They know boats, they have boats, they operate boats, from wood species to negative bus bars, they will know what's going on with the boat. Oh, and Lori is an amazingly detailed, prompt and organized pro as well! Cheers!
Greg L. (via Google)
The survey was was efficient, friendly and professional.
My insurance company required an out of the water survey this year and Merrick Marine was recommended to me by a good friend. The survey was was efficient, friendly and professional. Jim passed along some valuable knowledge during the process which I very much appreciated. I have a reasonable punch list of recommended items and a couple of important items I somehow overlooked in my normal maintenance checks. The report was delivered promptly and I certainly recommend them.
Brad G. (via Yelp)
I would definitely contract with Merrick Marine again for survey services
Merrick Marine conducted a very thorough pre-purchase survey for a sailboat I was interested in purchasing. As this was the first boat survey I had contracted, I had lots of questions. Jim and Delaney were very helpful in explaining what they were looking for and described both the symptoms for issues they identified and potential repair strategies. Although we weren't successful at completing this deal, I learned a lot that will help when looking at the next potential sailboat. I would definitely contract with Merrick Marine again for survey services.
Alan O. (via Google)
I cannot recommend him enough.
Fantastic experience. Jim is an ultimate professional and I cannot recommend him enough.
Cameron M. (via Google)
The printed survey was very well put together and very informative
They did a great survey of the boat we were looking at. Jim took the time to answer my questions on site. The printed survey was very well put together and very informative. I would recommend Merrick Marine.
Scot L. (via Yelp)
Great Service! Very thorough survey report.
Great Service! Very thorough survey report. I use to broker boats and saw lots of different surveyors. As such, knew who I wanted to survey my boat and wasn’t disappointed.
Plus, great post survey report service answering in great detail several questions I had about how to proceed on a few items.
Plus, great post survey report service answering in great detail several questions I had about how to proceed on a few items.
Mark B. (via Google)
I would definitely work again with and highly recommend Merrick Marine
I have a 1979 Ketch that was in need of a survey for a insurance policy renewal. Needing a haul out for maintenance and knowing through various sources this company was cancelling policies on older boats it was the perfect time to switch providers.
Jim Merrick was referred to me by a very knowledgeable friend. Going on this advice I was not disappointed. Jim arrived right on time and immediately got to work. Using the usual tools of the trade plus a number of advanced technical devices a very thorough examination of the deck, house and hull was completed. Below deck a very comprehensive examination continued covering ABYC guidelines and Coast Guard requirements.
During this time Jim asked me questions and didn't assume anything. He answered my questions and gave excellent advice covering a wide range of expertise. Communications were excellent.
Less than a week after the completion of the survey a very detailed report in PDF format was emailed to me. I found the description of items that needed to be addressed were presented in a format that indicated to be done now and other items to be addressed at a later date. The valuation of the vessel was fair along with a description of how it was determined.
I would definitely work again with and highly recommend Merrick Marine.
Jim Merrick was referred to me by a very knowledgeable friend. Going on this advice I was not disappointed. Jim arrived right on time and immediately got to work. Using the usual tools of the trade plus a number of advanced technical devices a very thorough examination of the deck, house and hull was completed. Below deck a very comprehensive examination continued covering ABYC guidelines and Coast Guard requirements.
During this time Jim asked me questions and didn't assume anything. He answered my questions and gave excellent advice covering a wide range of expertise. Communications were excellent.
Less than a week after the completion of the survey a very detailed report in PDF format was emailed to me. I found the description of items that needed to be addressed were presented in a format that indicated to be done now and other items to be addressed at a later date. The valuation of the vessel was fair along with a description of how it was determined.
I would definitely work again with and highly recommend Merrick Marine.
Lani S. (via Yelp)
I strongly recommend their services
I enjoyed having the Merricks survey my boat and I learned things from them about CG regulations and about my own boat. I strongly recommend their services.
James T. (via Google)
Recommended without reservation
Jim delivered our boat from Everett to Friday Harbour after surveying the boat prior to that. He was very helpful, accommodating and kept us in the loop all the time, making good on all his undertakings. He came recommended by one of the largest boat brokers in Canada and I can see why they trust him. Recommended without reservation.
Dirk K. (via Google and Yelp)
I couldn’t have asked for more thorough attention to detail
I had the pleasure of hiring Jim Merrick of Merrick Marine to conduct a pre-sale survey of an 80s model sailboat this year. I couldn't have asked for more thorough attention to detail, and I truly appreciate his modern, professional approach to marine surveying! He communicated effectively throughout the entire surveying process and made his observations and recommendations clear and concise, both on-site during the survey of my boat and in his detailed report provided shortly afterwards. He listened to and addressed all of my concerns about the vessel and left no compartment un-opened. This boat, which I ultimately purchase, is now a floating home to me, my wife, my dog and two cats! And none of us would feel as comfortable and safe aboard without Merrick Marine's expertise! Thanks!!!
Nicolas T. (via Google)
Thorough, informative, and thoughtful all around!
Absolutely loved working with Jim and crew for our survey. Thorough, informative, and thoughtful all around! Our report was delivered more quickly than expected and looked absolutely perfect. We'll definitely be engaging Merrick Marine in the future!
Brad B. (via Google)
Highly recommend Merrick Marine
Jim Merrick preformed a Marine Survey for us on a 40' boat that we had made a purchase offer on. His survey was exceptionally thorough. The report was 35 pages. Highly recommend Merrick Marine for marine surveys.
Rob T. (via Google)
Best of all he doesn’t disappear after the survey
Jim is fantastic. He is thorough, efficient and clear. Best of all he doesn’t disappear after the survey. He has been extremely helpful with clarifying any questions I had with my survey. He’s clearly very knowledgable about a wide range of boats and systems, and I could not recommend him highly enough!
If you want it done right, and you don't want to just waste a thousand dollars to listen to some guy tell you boat stories - hire Jim Merrick. You will not be disappointed!
Ben D. (via Facebook)
Jim and his daughter were so detailed and over communicated everything I had complete confidence in them.
Merrick Marine did such a great and thorough job for me! Jim was referred to me with high regards and they still over exceeded my expectations. Jim and his daughter were so detailed and over communicated everything I had complete confidence in them. They also turned our survey around really fast which was greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Jake C. (via Google and Yelp)
I’ve started recommending Merrick Marine to others and they will be my first call the next time
I was lucky enough to find Merrick Marine when my insurer threw a last-minute survey requirement at me, requiring both an in and out of water inspection. My boat was in the yard in Everett at the time, but was scheduled to launch a few days after I reached out to Jim. Jim and Delaney were kind enough to squeeze in a quick yard visit despite having a very full schedule. Jim and Delaney then visited my boat all the way up in Bellingham a few weeks later to complete the survey, issuing a comprehensive report and valuation soon after. Both were extremely personable and thorough, answering all my questions throughout the process. I've started recommending Merrick Marine to others and they will be my first call the next time I need a fresh survey or look at buying a new vessel. Thanks again!!
Tryg O. (via Google and Yelp)
Good professional to work with
I purchased a boat in Seattle and was looking for a surveyor in addition to lining up boatyards to do the haul out. In casual conversation with one yard owner, she asked who I was looking at for the survey. I said that Jim Merrick was one of them and she responded, "oh yeah, he's here all the time" which turns out to be quire true. Merrick Marine is very busy, which is good. He provided me excellent service. He was personable, listened well to my concerns and was clearly my advocate thru the process. His reports were easy to understand, comprehensive, clearly written and they got to me quickly. Good professional to work with.
Brad D. (via Google)
Absolute highest recommendation!
They did a very thorough and professional survey of my sailboat. Absolute highest recommendation! I'd definitely use them again.
Reed B. (via Yelp)
If you’re looking to do a boat survey, I would recommend Merrick Marine
Jim and Delaney came out to do a boat survey on a somewhat rare Rico houseboat I had in Harbor Village Marina in Kenmore, WA. They were incredibly professional, pointed out some things that should be fixed over time, some thinks that were going to be problems, and some things that were potentially hazardous and should be done right away. They had done a ton of research on the boat before they came out. They knew more about the history of the Rico boats than the previous owner did. They did the survey fairly quickly and efficiently. They had a report over to me in a couple of days that was very thorough, organized and informative.
If you're looking to do a boat survey, I would recommend Merrick Marine.
If you're looking to do a boat survey, I would recommend Merrick Marine.
Rod J. (via Yelp)
a stress free and educational experience
Jim and Lori are a cohesive survey team. Their expertise and attention to detail lent to a stress free and educational experience throughout the entire survey process. Thank you Merrick Marine.
Doug H. (via Google)
Jim is a true pro
I live in San Diego and purchased a used boat in Seattle. Jim Merrick was hired to do the survey of the boat, 2011 Monterey 400SY. This is a full day adventure. I have had other surveys before and recognize how thorough an inspection I received from Jim. He really didn't miss a thing and taught me much about my boat during the process. Jim is a true pro and a heck of a nice guy. After purchase, the boat needed to be moved to San Diego by trailer. I hired Jim to prep the boat and deliver it to the marina haul out in Seattle. He knew how to secure everything for the long journey and coordinated with the marina, the hauler, and the electrician to get my boat ready. It was quite a project and I could not be there. Jim went the extra mile to relieve my stress. The boat in now in San Diego safely. Thanks Jim for all of your help!
Craig M. (via Yelp)
We know so much more about the boat ourselves after following them around during their survey.
Jim Merrick and Delaney Couvrette-Merrick surveyed a 35 foot sailboat for us prior to our purchase. Both are extremely knowledgeable, professional, respectful, and honest. They are friendly and cheerful. They were thorough and explained all their findings during the inspection. Although we have spent a great deal of time on boats, sailboats are new to us, and they taught us so much.
Obviously, we discussed problems with the boat, but they also told us about how we might update the electronics and add a cooling plate to make the ice box a refrigerator, which they really didn't need to take the time to do. We know so much more about the boat ourselves after following them around during their survey.
We also received their report from Lori Merrick in a timely manner. It was well written and supported with lots of helpful pictures. We appreciated the work of all three of them.
Obviously, we discussed problems with the boat, but they also told us about how we might update the electronics and add a cooling plate to make the ice box a refrigerator, which they really didn't need to take the time to do. We know so much more about the boat ourselves after following them around during their survey.
We also received their report from Lori Merrick in a timely manner. It was well written and supported with lots of helpful pictures. We appreciated the work of all three of them.
Philippa S. (via Yelp)
Great communications and high quality work!!
Great communications and high quality work!!
Dean I. (via Google)
Their expertise is very well worth the cost!
Merrick Marine gave us a super thorough survey and helpful insights. Their expertise is very well worth the cost!
Dave S. (via Yelp)
Highly recommend him for you survey needs.
Jim was very thorough and answered all our questions. Highly recommend him for you survey needs. We appreciate everything and the time he took to do such a good job. He also got the report to us very quickly so we could move forward. Thank you Jim.
Fern C. (via Google)
Jim and Delaney were prompt, thorough, and informative throughout our sailboat survey.
Jim and Delaney were prompt, thorough, and informative throughout our sailboat survey. Survey report was provided in a timely manner and clearly outlined the condition and issues with the boat. They took the time to answer our questions, before, during, and after the survey. They are a professional, personable, and friendly team!
Jen T. (via Yelp)
I’ve found my new go-to for Surveyors and referrals!
Jim and Delaney were my professionals surveying a Cobalt 293 for a presale process. I was able to meet them and felt confident they were competent and thorough. A few days later I received a very detailed report with impressive content building my case for a negotiation to the seller.
The process was not only thorough but pleasant to talk to experts willing to help answer questions with an experienced perspective to boating.
I've found my new go-to for Surveyors and referrals!
The process was not only thorough but pleasant to talk to experts willing to help answer questions with an experienced perspective to boating.
I've found my new go-to for Surveyors and referrals!
Braxten T. (via Yelp)
The entire end-to-end process was a great experience.
Jim and Delaney performed a survey on a Meridian 408 with sea trial and fluid analysis. They were extremely professional, efficient, objective, and thorough in both their work during the survey and the resulting report. The report itself was very well organized and quickly identified those areas of interest. As others have noted in their posts, they have a great family team; very friendly and prompt in replies. The entire end-to-end process was a great experience. With this, and given that this is a new boat and a new size for me, I'll be using them further for their At-the-Helm assistance.
Mike D. (via Yelp)
Great people. Great service.
Survey with Merrick Marine (Delaney Couvrette-Merrick and Jim Merrick) and mechanical with Yacht Performance Center (Melissa Rundlett and Brandon Farmer). Great people. Great service. Jim & Delaney are USCG Masters too so they can help with helm training if need be.
Michael A. (via Facebook)
Would use him again
Jim is a very knowledgable and thorough surveyor, and was timely with his report. He took time during the survey to explain the what and what for of what he was looking at during the survey. Would use him again if need survey service in Seattle area.
Neal S. (via Google)
For a marine survey, this is the company to use
Very professional, highly recommend. Jim did a survey for me on a Grand Banks Classic, he found some very expensive repairs that needed to be done. Thankfully I did not buy the boat, his survey saved me thousands in repair costs. For a marine survey, this is the company to use.
Gerald J. (via Google)
The survey was timely, thorough and very professional.
The survey was timely, thorough and very professional.
Dwaine H.
I highly recommend Merrick for all your survey needs
This was our first big boat purchase and the Merrick team did a great job walking us through the entire process. On the sea trail Jim and Delaney were doing their work professionally and with good humor. I highly recommend Merrick for all your survey needs.
Lanny H. (via Google)
great folks to spend a morning with surveying the boat!
Knowledgeable, expert, timely, and great folks to spend a morning with surveying the boat!
Ivan S. (via Google)
One of the most professional surveyors in WA
One of the most professional surveyors in WA. Their reports are well presented showing all the information required in an easy to read format. They are also very reliable delivery captains.
Robb B., Grand Yachts (via Google)
Very professional and easy to work with
Very professional and easy to work with, did exactly what they said they would do, and when they said it would be done by. On our survey two people working together documenting efficiently by taking notes and photos... seemed like a very good use of the time available.
Tom (via Google)
Merrick really knows his stuff
Jim Merrick really knows his stuff. Great experience. Practical and Professional. I’ve seen Jim solve some very complex issues. Great to have on your team.
Paul S. (via Facebook)
thorough and professional
Very thorough and professional service.
Kurt W. (via Google)
The immediate trust in their abilities came when I saw their experience in action
This is my 3rd marine survey that I’ve had performed and my first with Merrick Marine. I must say Merrick was by far the most efficient and professional of them all. The immediate trust in their abilities came when I saw their experience in action.
Cliff F. (via Google)
I strongly recommend them.
Merrick Marine were extremely good at a pre purchase survey for me. Detailed, professional, explaining to me as they reviewed everything. Jim even volunteered and then did follow up on questions I had after getting the written survey. I strongly recommend them.
Don F. (via Google)
Very knowledgeable, comprehensive survey report.
Great working with Jim and Merrick Marine on a recent survey. Particularly the excellent communication pre, during and post survey. Very knowledgeable, comprehensive survey report. In the end helped us to make right decision.
Tim F. (via Google)
Both are extremely knowledgeable, professional, respectful, and honest.
Jim Merrick and Delaney Couvrette-Merrick surveyed a 35 foot sailboat for us prior to our purchase. Both are extremely knowledgeable, professional, respectful, and honest. They are friendly and cheerful. They were thorough and explained all their findings during the inspection. Although we have spent a great deal of time on boats, sailboats are new to us, and they taught us so much.
Obviously, we discussed problems with the boat, but they also told us about how we might update the electronics and add a cooling plate to make the ice box a refrigerator, which they really didn't need to take the time to do. We know so much more about the boat ourselves after following them around during their survey.
We also received their report from Lori Merrick in a timely manner. It was well written and supported with lots of helpful pictures. We appreciated the work of all three of them.
Obviously, we discussed problems with the boat, but they also told us about how we might update the electronics and add a cooling plate to make the ice box a refrigerator, which they really didn't need to take the time to do. We know so much more about the boat ourselves after following them around during their survey.
We also received their report from Lori Merrick in a timely manner. It was well written and supported with lots of helpful pictures. We appreciated the work of all three of them.
Philippa S. (via Google)
Top notch surveyors!
Excellent Survey. They were very thorough and took time to explain all findings thoroughly. Top notch surveyors!
Dave T. (via Google)
I wouldn’t hesitate to use their services again
Jim and Lori did a thorough job of the boat survey, and I wouldn't hesitate to use their services again. Easy and straightforward to deal with.
Fred B. (Via Google)
Reliable, on time and thorough sailboat inspection
Reliable, on time and thorough sailboat inspection and survey. Jim even braved the Snowpacalypse to keep our appointment. Good communication and explanation of items requiring attention.
Stephen M. (via Google)
Great firm!
Great firm! Jim and Lori were incredibly helpful, detailed, so friendly, and accommodating. I will highly recommend them to anyone needing their services.
Christa R. (via Yelp)
I would recommend Merrick Marine to perform your survey.
Jim was very good about communicating what they would do on the survey and when they would be there. They were on time. The survey was thorough and the documentation was received promptly. Jim is very knowledgeable, professional and explained what he found. I would recommend Merrick Marine to perform your survey.
Perry M. (via Google)
5 Stars
John B. (via Google)
They had a great approach to the survey and really knew their way around the boat
Jim and Lori Merrick performed an in-water Insurance/valuation survey on my 1986 Ericson 35 MK3. I was able to get on their schedule within 10 days of contacting them, very acceptable. They had a great approach to the survey and really knew their way around the boat. They were very personable, freely explained what they were looking for and were extremely knowledgeable about all the requirements and regulations. They explained any found shortcomings and appropriate solutions. The final report arrived in my hands as promised and was extremely comprehensive. It was a joy to work with them and I would highly recommend Merrick Marine for your vessel survey needs.
Glenn K. (via Yelp)
I highly recommend them!!
Jim and Delaney are the best in the business. I highly recommend them!!
Ben O. (via Google)
Super knowledgable and fair
Very honest guy, helped direct me on the possible purchase of a '96 Chaparral. I would definitely recommend his services as he is super knowledgable and fair.
Jason S. (via Yelp)
You won’t find a more experienced team
You won’t find a more experienced team.
Perrin K. (via Facebook)
They were incredibly professional from my first contact to the final written report.
I contracted with Merrick Marine to perform a pre-purchase survey on a 35' sailboat in Seattle. They were incredibly professional from my first contact to the final written report. Jim Merrick was also a great source of information about the boat during the survey process, and I had a million questions. He patiently answered all of my queries. On top of it all, he's just a very nice guy. I highly recommend their services.
Brian L. (via Google)
Would definitely recommend Merrick Marine!
Great experience- from the scheduling to the actual survey. A very honest and helpful survey but also a lot of very helpful advice. The survey arrived after a couple days later.
They were also nice people who I truly enjoyed spending the morning with.
Would definitely recommend Merrick Marine!
They were also nice people who I truly enjoyed spending the morning with.
Would definitely recommend Merrick Marine!
Stephen J. (via Yelp)
A winning team
Great survey and surveyor, very thorough and detailed information is conveyed in a manner that is easily digested. Professional report presentation with outline of key data points and inspection discovery is excellent. Quite obvious that they have a lifetime of on the water experience when it comes to evaluating sailboats and motor yachts — a winning team.
Eric B. (via Google)
Highly recommended
Jim Merrick was a pleasure to work with and covered all aspects of the boat for the survey. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a Great surveyor.
Kevin K. (via Google)
I was very happy with their service and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to others
I wasn’t personally able to attend pre purchase survey but sent a very knowledgeable friend. He had been through several surveys and was impressed by Jim’s thoroughness. Report was complete and well organized and Jim spent time with me on the phone going over the report and offering advice. I was very happy with their service and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to others.
Mike U. (via Google)
professional, friendly, and I learned some stuff
Knew their stuff & gave me pointers. Precisely on time for the appointment, and the survey report was sent to me faster than expected. Overall: professional, friendly, and I learned some stuff.
Jay E. (via Yelp)
Jim was great, and supported by a great family team who made things simple
Jim was great, and supported by a great family team who made things simple pre- and post-survey. If you don't show up for the survey with Jim you are missing out on a chance to glean general boat knowledge and specific details with respect to your watercraft. But you'll still get 40pp of detail that the seller, any broker and and post-closing service provider will understand an respect. We'll be back, including for At The Helm Instruction.
Marty C. (via Yelp)
Very thorough
They did some nice work surveying our Axopar 37. Very thorough.
Bob S. (via Google)
Merrick is the ONLY company we recommend.
We can't recommend Merrick Marine enough!!!! We deal with surveyors on a weekly basis. So, we know a lot of them. Merrick is the ONLY company we recommend.
Salty Boys Boat Works (via Google)
Would highly recommend them for any job large or small!
It was terrific working with Merrick Marine! Very professional and thorough and made the whole process easy. Would highly recommend them for any job large or small!
Erik N. (via Yelp)
His services far exceeded my expectations and I would recommend him as a marine surveyor even if you are a novice boater.
I contacted Merrick Marine on a referral from Kaiser Marine who was not available for the time I needed for a marine survey on a boat I was considering purchasing 1994 Maxum 32000 SCR. Jim Merrick gave me great information prior to scheduling the survey which swayed me to schedule with him. Jim was patient and knowledgeable about the entire survey and purchase process. Jim arrived on time as scheduled with the necessary equipment. Throughout the process of the survey he was very patient and took the time to explain in detail everything about the boat as well as answer all of my questions during the sea trial. His final report was thorough, extensive and very detailed with clear explanations and several quality photos. His services far exceeded my expectations and I would recommend him as a marine surveyor even if you are a novice boater. His service will prove as quality and educational.
James H. (via Yelp)
I would recommend them to anyone in the Puget Sound area looking for a great surveyor!
Merrick Marine did an excellent job with the survey on my boat! Jim and Delaney spent nearly an entire day dedicated to thorough, complete, and professional work. I was impressed with the 25-page report as well as the link to a full photo album. Communication was clear from start to finish and I was comfortable asking questions during and after the process. I feel confident in the survey and have been given peace of mind about the boat I am purchasing. I would recommend them to anyone in the Puget Sound area looking for a great surveyor!
Bri S. (via Yelp)
I highly recommend Merrick Marine
I highly recommend Merrick Marine. I recently had a 2015 46 foot sailboat surveyed and it was a very professional and thorough survey with a lot of valuable insight provided in the written report. Jim also assisted in moving the boat from it's past location to a new location and went out of his way to complete the transit after we encountered some bad weather that delayed and postponed the trip. If you're in need of a survey or other assistance with your boat I wouldn't hesitate to call Merrick Marine.
Kirk S. (via Yelp)
We will definitely be going to Jim again for any future surveying needs!
Working with Jim Merrick was delightful. He was very fast to respond to my initial email and was almost always available to chat by phone. He obviously loves sailing and does thorough research on whatever vessel you are interested in. His survey work itself is impeccable. His paperwork is well laid and, again, thorough. We weren't blindsided by any surprise boat maintenance. My husband and I were first time boat buyers and Jim kindly walked us through the whole process. We will definitely be going to Jim again for any future surveying needs!
Nan T. (via Google)
About Us
The Merricks have lifetimes of experience on the water in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. We grew up here, spending every possible moment on the water, cruising, racing, living aboard, and commercial fishing in Puget Sound, SE Alaska, and Bristol Bay. We have cruised and raced in every corner of the globe including not just the Salish Sea, but Australia, the Med, the Baltic, Hawaii (Vic-Maui), SoCal, the Caribbean, and the Chesapeake.
We have worked in fiberglass and aluminum manufacturing, including owning an advanced composite marine manufacturing business building boats from 12 feet to more than 70 feet. We began laying up dinghies in the garage long before we could drive a car. Mike even holds a patent in a unique fiberglass fabrication process.
Jim is an Accredited Marine Survey in Yachts and Small Craft with the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), and both Delaney and Jim are members of the International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI). Jim is also an ABYC Certified Systems Technician. Mike holds a patent in fiberglass fabrication.
Like her father Jim, Delaney is a USCG-licensed Master Captain with Sailing Endorsement. She is also a licensed private investigator with her own agency. Her background in global investigations and security bring a unique depth and attention to detail to our reports and investigative work.
Merrick Marine is intimately familiar with boats and systems of all sizes and shapes, from cuddy cabin to motor yacht, from dinghy to offshore racer. Our experience in fabrication allows us to more thoroughly survey your boat and accurately estimate damage claims regardless of material, composites, core, or onboard systems.
Our approach uses the latest technologies including infrared, ultrasonic, and laser measurement, as well as the knowledge that comes only from years of hands-on experience. During deliveries, we can even offer dynamic GPS tracking so you can follow along and know exactly where your boat is at all times.
If all this seems overwhelming, don’t worry, we can help you make sense of it all. Whether you just want to know the best practice for docking your new boat or you want to learn how to do a dip-pole gybe with your tri-radial spinnaker, our At-The-Helm training will take you through it—hands-on, on your own boat, in the very water where you want to be. Our two-instructor “Couple’s” training allows us to work with both the person at the helm and the person on the lines at the same time, ensuring competence and confidence for all on board.