Sharing a lifetime’s passion for sailing, boats and the sea

A qualified IIMS and SAMS marine surveyor and RYA commercial skipper based in St Martin in the Caribbean, Sam will support you with:

  • yacht surveys
  • yacht systems advice
  • sail and yacht management training
  • sales & purchase assistance

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what SAM doES

Sam offers the following personalised services:

Yacht Surveys

Sam is an IIMS trained surveyor and SAMS member for small vessels – up to 24m – specialising in fibreglass vessels and yacht system installations. Contact her if you need a:

If buying a boat is a significant investment for you, it pays to get an expert inspection of her before handing over your cash…

Carried out for the owner of a boat under a charter-purchase contract at the end of the charter period, this inspection confirms the remedial works necessary to bring the vessel to a standard commensurate with her age and usage.

A must before any long voyage and, as a minimum, every 5 years with the mast at ground level so that every tiny part can be properly inspected…

Most insurers will ask you for a survey report and valuation when you buy your boat, and at fixed intervals afterwards…

If you’re thinking of re-registering your boat under a new flag, know that many flag states require a tonnage measurement

Usually requested by an insurer if you make a claim, this inspection advises the extent of the damage and approximate repair costs…

Useful for prospective buyers who are not on the island, a supportive interface between you and a broker/seller.

Professional Skippering

Holder of a Commercially Endorsed RYA Yachtmaster Offshore for over 30 years and an RYA Cruising Instructor, Sam has sailed extensively in the Caribbean and Mediterranean and in some parts of South East Asia, the Atlantic coast of Europe, the North Sea and USA. She is available for select:

Your sailing holiday should be a stress free experience, so let a professional skipper take weight off your shoulders…

If you need to move your boat and would prefer to have a professional on board…

Getting to know a new boat can be stressful, take some private lessons and get a head start…

Other Boaty Help

With 30 years of sailing boat ownership, Sam can help with:

Let me help you through the minefield of choices, whether remotely or in person; whittling down the best options, pre-inspection reports, valuation guidance…

Discuss your refit needs and get help in managing your projects on the island of Sint Maarten/St Martin…

Ensure your rewiring, plumbing, steering or engine installation meets recommended installation standards…

Don’t put your boat on the market without our helpful guidance; we’ll show you how to get the best return, and broker your sale if you wish …

About Sam

In 1992, I inherited a partially built hull from my Dad, who’s dream had been to sail around the world.  The boat took me seven years to finish and every penny I earned during that time.

I’ve been sailing ever since – from Scotland to the Mediterranean, in SE Asia and, for the last 15 years, in the Caribbean.  What started as a promise to my father has become my lifetime passion.

I’m a sailor, commercial skipper, a small yacht surveyor and I’ve built, sailed, refitted, owned and maintained sailing boats for 35 years… and I love it!

On this site I hope you find something to inspire and help you on your sailing journey.

Read more of my story here

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM ME

The role of a Marine Surveyor and Professional Skipper carries a weight of responsibility, and is not one which I undertake lightly. The subjects are vast and all of my qualifications are current and updated as required.

Anchor damage to the nacelle of a catamaran

PROFESSIONALISM
I will respond promptly to your queries, be on time for meetings, treat you and your vessel with respect, and honour your privacy. I commit to maintaining my level of knowledge to enable my best work.

INTEGRITY
I will never promise to undertake something for which I am neither experienced nor qualified, and I will respond openly and honestly to questions. I will work to the best of my ability at all times.

INDEPENDENCE
I work solely for my contracted client; I have no affiliation with any sales brokers, insurers, boat-owners, yards or marine technicians. I will report what I find and I will not undertake work where I have a conflict of interest.

Testimonials

We were new to sailing and (recklessly!) bought a charter boat without seeing it. We relied upon Sam to do an honest and thorough survey and we were not disappointed.
She went the extra mile, was extremely helpful and kept us up to date through the process.

Chris Constance
UK

We have met Sam in Saint Martin; she did our survey very precaise and professionally.

She knew what to look for, having a lot of knowledge in boat construction and systems.

Highly recommended!

Meeka Yari-Levi
Israel

Sam was excellent and caring. She assessed our boat and assisted with excellent sub contractors when on the hard for our annual haul out. Cannot recommended enough!

Ryan Duminy
SA

FROM THE BLOG

Marine Battery Technologies: Why LiFePO4 is Leading the Charge

The marine industry is experiencing a significant transformation in power storage technology. As vessels become increasingly reliant on electrical systems and the demand for reliable, efficient power grows, the limitations of traditional lead-acid batteries are becoming more apparent. This shift, combined with advances in lithium battery technology and increasing environmental awareness, has led to a … Read more

Lithium Battery Chemistries for Marine Use

The marine industry is experiencing a significant transition from traditional lead-acid batteries to lithium-based energy storage systems. This shift is driven by the promise of higher energy density, longer lifespan, and improved performance. However, the marine environment presents unique challenges, and not all lithium battery technologies are equally suited to these demanding conditions. This article … Read more

INFO TOPICS

Whether you’re contemplating your next sailing holiday destination, pondering the best boat to buy for your budget, or thinking about replacing your bilge pumps, you’ll find helpful independent tips here.

Buying a Boat

Tips to help you get the best boat for your budget and plans

Boat Ownership

How to maintain, repair and refit your investment so it holds its value

Selling Your Boat

Preparing & listing your boat for the best possible return