Survey, audit and inspection are often used as though they meant the same thing. They do not. A survey establishes the condition or quantity of something. An audit tests whether a company’s systems and records work as intended. An inspection examines a vessel physically against a defined standard, usually on behalf of a third party. Choosing the wrong one costs time and, in some cases, a charter. This guide follows a vessel through its working life and names the right service at each stage, so that owners and managers can brief a marine survey company in the UAE accurately.

Before Purchase: Pre-Purchase and Condition Surveys

A second-hand vessel can look sound from the quayside and still carry significant hidden cost. A pre-purchase or condition survey establishes the facts before money changes hands. Seaspeed Marine carries out these surveys at major Middle East ports, using inspectors with backgrounds as Master Mariners, Chief Engineers and Technical Superintendents. Their assessments are independent, and they are intended to show a buyer exactly what risk the purchase carries.

The value of the report extends beyond a list of defects. Seaspeed’s team also advises on the work the vessel could realistically take, the charter rates it may command, the likely cost of repairs, major expenses such as dry-docking that fall due soon, and a fair valuation.

At Delivery: Bunker and Cargo Surveys

Disputes over fuel and cargo most often begin at the point of delivery. A bunker survey records what was actually delivered, and Seaspeed also offers cargo surveys. Appointing the surveyor before the delivery takes place gives both parties a reliable record from the start.

On an Annual Cycle: ISM, ISPS, MLC and ISO Audits

The ISM Code expects a company to audit its safety and pollution-prevention activities, on board and ashore, at intervals not exceeding 12 months. It also expects the auditors to be independent of the areas they examine, unless the size and nature of the company make that impracticable. Many operators meet this requirement by appointing external ISM, ISPS, MLC and ISO auditors in the UAE.

Seaspeed provides certified auditors who act on behalf of the management company and issue a detailed narrative report, listing each finding as a non-conformity or an observation. The ISPS Code calls for internal and external audits to confirm that the ship follows its Ship Security Plan. On crew welfare, Seaspeed notes that major flag States require internal Maritime Labour Convention inspections each year.

Because these reviews overlap, Seaspeed recommends integrating MLC inspections into the existing ISM and ISPS audit programme on a single yearly schedule, which saves time and cost. Independent ISO audits work on the same principle: an impartial reviewer tests the system against the standard the company has chosen.

Ahead of Vetting: Pre-Vetting and Pre-OVID Inspections

Vetting is the screening process through which oil majors and charterers decide whether to approve a tanker. A pre-vetting inspection is a rehearsal conducted by an independent inspector ahead of the real one. Seaspeed’s pre-vetting inspections follow the SIRE programme and concentrate on the Vessel Inspection Questionnaire. The inspector identifies weaknesses likely to attract a negative response and guides the crew of each department on the spot.

According to Seaspeed, the operator receives a detailed report with recommendations within 48 hours of completion, and the Master receives a summary before the inspector leaves the vessel. Where a vetting still produces negative observations, the team can assist with the owner’s response on request.

Offshore vessels face a different scheme. OCIMF introduced the Offshore Vessel Inspection Database (OVID) in 2010, and offshore vessels are assessed against its questionnaire. Seaspeed’s surveyors visit a few days before the inspection to prepare the vessel. Operators searching for pre-vetting inspectors in the UAE should confirm which scheme applies to their vessel, as the preparation differs.

When the Role Changes: Suitability Surveys and Navigation Audits

A suitability survey assesses whether a vessel and its equipment can carry out a specific task, which is a useful check before accepting a new contract. Navigation audits take a wider view, examining navigational safety standards across a shipping company.

Common Misunderstandings

“Internal audits can be carried out by the people who run the area.” The ISM Code asks for auditors who are independent of the area being audited wherever that is practical.

“A pre-vetting inspection is a pass or fail test.” It is preparation. Its purpose is to find and correct weaknesses, supported by guidance on board and a written report.

“Each convention requires a separate visit.” MLC inspections can be combined with ISM and ISPS audits.

Selecting a Marine Survey Company in UAE

The first consideration is the surveyor’s experience, since a sea-going background brings practical judgement to the findings. Operators should also ask what certification the auditors hold, how reports are structured, how quickly they are delivered, and whether support continues after the visit. Having the vessel’s details, the port, the deadline and any earlier reports ready will help the surveyor quote accurately.

Seaspeed Marine Management was incorporated in 2007 and operates from offices in Sharjah, Fujairah and Abu Dhabi. As it also charters and manages vessels, it can interpret survey results from a commercial as well as a technical standpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a survey the same as an inspection?

The terms overlap in daily use. A survey assesses condition or quantity, while an inspection checks a vessel physically against a standard. Seaspeed itself describes its audit service as an inspection, so it is worth confirming exactly what will be carried out.

How often must internal ISM audits take place?

The ISM Code expects them at intervals not exceeding 12 months.

Can MLC inspections be combined with ISM and ISPS audits?

Seaspeed states that they can, and recommends one combined yearly schedule to save time and cost.

How soon is a pre-vetting report available?

Seaspeed states that the operator receives a detailed report within 48 hours of the inspection.