Business Details
Trusted Marine Surveyor & Consulting Services in Chesapeake, VA
With over four decades of experience in the marine industry, Capt FK Lanier & Associates Marine provides expert marine surveying and consulting services rooted in extensive practical and academic expertise. A 28-year U.S. Coast Guard veteran and SAMS Accredited Marine Surveyor, we specialize in comprehensive vessel assessments, safety certifications, and educational training programs tailored to both recreational and commercial maritime needs. Our team combines hands-on technical knowledge with a commitment to boating safety, offering services ranging from hull moisture analysis to USCG compliance assistance.Backed by a 100GT masters license and FCC-certified electronics expertise, we deliver precise evaluations of power, sail, and steel-hulled vessels across diverse environments. Our thought leadership extends to authorship of technical articles and award-winning journalism that advances industry standards and consumer awareness.
Services
Marine Surveys
Corrosion Surveys
Vessel Training
USCG Certification
FCC Electronics Inspections
Cargo Equipment Assessments
Security Plan Development
Moisture Readings
Float Plan Services
Highlights and features
- SAMS Accredited Marine Surveyor with 40+ years of industry experience
- Specializing in USCG Small Passenger Certification for inspected vessels
- FCC licensed electronics inspection and troubleshooting expertise
- Author of technical marine publications and safety training materials
- Proven methodology for corrosion analysis and hull integrity assessments
Associations and certifications
- Society Of Accredited Marine Surveyors
- American Boat and Yacht Council
- National Fire Prevention Association
Services
Marine Surveys
Comprehensive assessments for power, sail, and commercial vessels including structural integrity, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance. Our surveys identify safety risks, maintenance needs, and valuation metrics for pre-purchase or insurance purposes. Specialized expertise in wood, fiberglass, steel, and aluminum hull evaluations.
Corrosion Surveys
Advanced testing to detect electrochemical deterioration in metal components using ultrasonic thickness gauging and visual inspection. We identify galvanic corrosion sources, recommend mitigation strategies, and assess structural implications for prolonged vessel service life.
Vessel Training
Customized instruction on onboard systems operation, emergency procedures, and maintenance protocols. Training covers electrical systems, propulsion mechanics, safety equipment, and regulatory compliance to enhance operational proficiency and risk management capabilities.
USCG Certification
Preparation and documentation support for Small Passenger Vessel Certification. Services include stability analysis, safety equipment verification, and regulatory gap assessments to ensure compliance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements for commercial operations.
FCC Electronics Inspections
Certification of marine electronic systems including VHF radios, radar, and navigation equipment per FCC Part 80 regulations. We verify installation standards, signal integrity, and emergency positioning capabilities for commercial and recreational vessels.
People
Frank Lanier
Marine Surveyor & Consultant
28-year U.S. Coast Guard veteran with 40+ years marine industry experience. Holds 100GT master's license, FCC electronics certification, and PADI Master SCUBA Trainer credentials. Published author on maritime safety and systems maintenance.
Questions
What types of vessels do you survey?
We assess power, sail, recreational, and commercial vessels constructed from wood, fiberglass, steel, or aluminum. This includes yachts, ferries, dive boats, and USCG-inspected passenger vessels.
Do you provide training for boat owners?
Yes, we offer customized vessel familiarization programs covering systems operation, maintenance protocols, and emergency response procedures tailored to specific boat configurations and owner experience levels.
Are your surveys USCG compliant?
Our surveys meet USCG Small Passenger Vessel Certification requirements, including stability analysis, safety equipment verification, and regulatory documentation preparation for commercial operators.
What locations do you service?
Based in Chesapeake, VA, we operate throughout the Atlantic, Caribbean, and South Pacific regions. Remote consultation services are available globally via digital documentation review.
Do you inspect marine electronics systems?
Yes, we perform FCC-certified electronics inspections for navigation, communication, and safety systems including VHF radios, radar, and emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs).
