Business Details
17 Years
experience
Professional Marine Surveying & Consulting Services
Founded in 2009, Suenos Azules Marine Surveying and Consulting is a licensed and insured marine surveying firm dedicated to upholding the highest standards in the boating industry. Our expertise spans comprehensive marine surveys, engine diagnostics, and thermal imaging inspections for sail and power vessels across Florida, the Caribbean, Belize, Costa Rica, and the United States. As a SAMS Accredited Suenos Azules Marine Surveying and Consulting and holder of multiple manufacturer certifications, we prioritize thorough, non-intrusive inspections that deliver actionable insights for clients. Our mission aligns with SAMS, USPAP, and ABYC standards, ensuring reports meet underwriting and lending requirements while maintaining ethical integrity. With over 30 years of boating experience and advanced thermography training, we combine technical precision with client-focused service, offering reports within 3-5 business days and flexible scheduling for surveys. Our commitment to continuous education and cutting-edge technology, including professional-grade FLIR thermal cameras, positions us as a trusted authority in marine diagnostics and appraisal.
Services
Pre-purchase Surveys
Marine Engine Surveys
Insurance Surveys
Thermal Imaging
Valuation Inspections
Served areas
- Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Stuart
Details
- Year established: 2009
- Employees: 2
Highlights and features
- Pre-purchase Marine Surveying
- Insurance Surveys
- Damage Claim Investigations
- Infrared Thermal Imaging
- Ultrasonic Hull Plate Testing
- Expert Witness Testimony
- Marine Engine Diagnostics
- Compression Testing
- Marine Consulting
Associations and certifications
- SAMS Accredited Marine Surveyor
- ABYC Standards Accredited
- USPAP Certified Appraiser (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice)
- ITC Certified Level II Thermographer (Infrared Training Center)
- U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (50 Ton Master Captains License / 99 Ton OUPV License) with auxiliary sailing and towing endorsements
- FDLE Law Enforcement Certification
- Florida Notary Public
- State of Florida C License (Private Investigator License)
- State of Florida D License
- State of Florida G License
- State of Florida Firearm License
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential
- Hold a valid U.S. Passport.
- Graduate of the Chapman School of Seamanship
- Marine Radio Operator Permit
- Member of SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors).
- Member ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council)
- Member NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
- Member IAMI (International Association of Marine Investigators)
- Former FCIC / NCIC Certified
- Former U.S. Coast Guard Qualified Federal Boarding Officer (with Customs Authority).
- Former U.S. Coast Guard Qualified Small Boat Coxswain.
Payment methods
- Credit cards
- Mobile payments
- Checks
Services
Pre-purchase Marine Surveys
Our pre-purchase surveys evaluate a vessel's structural integrity, mechanical systems, and safety equipment to inform buyers. We inspect hulls, engines, electronics, and onboard systems, including thermal imaging for hidden issues. Clients receive a detailed report with condition ratings and market value assessments to support informed purchasing decisions.
Marine Engine Surveys
We perform comprehensive engine evaluations using computerized diagnostics and thermal imaging to assess performance and identify repair needs. Our certified technicians analyze engine hours, fault codes, and mechanical condition for Yamaha, Mercury, and Honda engines. Reports highlight maintenance requirements to help owners avoid costly failures.
Thermal Imaging
Our FLIR thermal cameras detect temperature anomalies in electrical systems, engines, and hulls to identify overheating components or hidden leaks. This non-invasive technology reveals issues like delamination, faulty wiring, or engine hotspots during surveys. Findings are integrated into reports with photographic evidence for client clarity.
Insurance Surveys
We conduct SAMS-compliant surveys to determine vessel risk profiles for insurers. Our reports assess structural integrity, safety features, and replacement values according to industry standards. These evaluations help insurance companies establish coverage terms while providing owners with accurate risk documentation.
Vessel Damage Inspections
Our damage inspections investigate the extent and cause of marine incidents using diagnostic tools and thermal imaging. We document findings with photographic evidence and provide repair cost estimates for insurance claims. Reports include root-cause analysis to support claims settlement and litigation processes.
People
Capt. John Banister
Owner & Marine Surveyor
A SAMS-accredited marine surveyor with 30+ years of boating experience, Capt. Banister holds certifications from ABYC, ITC, and major engine manufacturers. He conducts surveys globally and provides expert witness testimony in marine litigation cases.
Questions
What services does Suenos Azules offer?
We provide pre-purchase surveys, marine engine diagnostics, insurance surveys, thermal imaging inspections, valuation reports, and damage analysis for boats and yachts.
Are your surveys accepted by insurance companies?
Yes, our SAMS-accredited surveys meet USPAP standards and are accepted by major marine insurers in the U.S. and internationally.
Do you offer thermal imaging for boat inspections?
Yes, we use professional FLIR thermal cameras to detect hidden issues in engines, electrical systems, and hulls during surveys.
How quickly do you deliver survey reports?
Reports are typically delivered within 3-5 business days after the inspection, with exceptions for complex cases.
Are you certified by marine industry organizations?
We hold SAMS accreditation, ABYC certifications, and manufacturer-specific training from Yamaha, Mercury, and Honda.
Do you service boats outside Florida?
Yes, we conduct surveys throughout the Caribbean, Belize, Costa Rica, and across the United States.