ShipMaster Marine Surveying & Inspection

06/22/2026

06/22/2026

Why we Tap the hull
Hull Diagnostics:

SOUNDING THE HULL
An enduring, trusted technique is to gently tap the hull and deck to gauge their condition. Use a phenolic hammer or the plastic end of a large screwdriver. Start methodically along the stringer lines in the bilge, then shift attention to the deck above.

What the taps tell you
A crisp, solid “rap” indicates the fiberglass remains firmly bonded to the core. This points to a healthy, sturdy structure.
A dull, hollow “thud” signals trouble, often pointing to delamination (fiberglass separating from the core) or a degraded core. Hi

Mark and map the findings
As you encounter suspect areas, mark them with a grease pencil or painter’s tape. Over time, you’ll compile a visual map of potential deterioration, helping you gauge the scope of the repair or refit project.

Moisture Verification with a Meter

Relying on taps and visual cues gets you close, but a moisture meter provides the hard data to confirm what you suspect. This is the final piece of evidence you’ll use before deciding to cut.

Use a pinless meter and take readings across the stringer grid. Consistently high results—typically above 15–20%—indicate water has penetrated the fiberglass and saturated the core, making rot highly likely. This tool helps differentiate a small, localized leak from widespread saturation that could necessitate a broader stringer repair or replacement.

06/22/2026

Did you know you can damage your alternator by misusing your battery switch?
After starting on position 1 if you turn the switch to OFF it can fry the alternator.

06/22/2026

If you have a pink prop, it's time to find fault. Pink props can fail at high speed. Prop turns pink due to Dezinkification. Bonding failures, isolation transformer faults and lost zinks will cause these issues.

06/20/2026

06/20/2026

To celebrate America 250, I am proud to join this fundraising campaig… Anna Smith Lacey needs your support for Help Honor Colonel Michael Kovats in Charleston

06/20/2026

Southport Marine Survey and Sea-trial 30 mph+ gusts aboard Grady White Marlin 300 Chief Mate Josh Cartret

06/18/2026

NC Vessel Operator’s Guide:

06/18/2026

When the SS United States put to sea in the Summer of 1952, her galleys were among the most advanced afloat.
Loaded with the latest time-saving food-prep and cooking devices, including the world's first microwaves (known as radar ranges back then) on a vessel, the galley crew could make up to 9,000 meals a day. Electric ranges & fry kettles by Hotpoint, electric bread slicers by Oliver Machinery Co., meat slicers, coffee makers, toasters by H.C. Plummer Co., ice cube machines by Carrier Corp., and many other American appliance manufacturers, both big and small, made up the galley spaces. Stainless steel was used throughout.