



Our
Story..
Barry Burnell, MSc Mar.Dip.Sur MIIMS ASCMS FEMAS FNIBME
Your Canal and River Boat Surveyor
With decades of experience navigating the intricate world of canal boats, I am an experienced marine surveyor based in West London & Buckinghamshire, providing expert services across the UK. My journey on the canals began in my teenage years and having previously managed my own boatyard, I possess an extensive understanding of Narrowboats, Widebeams, Historic boats, Barges, Steel and Iron. This hands-on experience, coupled with a suite of industry qualifications, allows me to deliver thorough, reliable surveys that ensure the safety and integrity of your vessel.
Whether you need a pre-purchase survey, insurance survey, or expert advice on canal boats, my wealth of knowledge and commitment to excellence makes me a trusted partner for all your marine surveying needs.

Services

Full Survey
- Survey boat hull for cruising damage and build quality. Plate condition and weld patterns to the base plate, counter floor and hull sides. Outlets, freeboard and hull penetrations. Plate thickness particularly at vulnerable areas.
- Pitting depth & Weedhatch assembly.
- Cabin fabrication, condition and fixtures.
- Stern gear / propulsion and rudder assemblies.
- Engine and gearbox condition and installation, the engine is run under load for a minimum of one hour.
- Electric 12v system & 240v system. Gas system. Plumbing, domestic water and heating systems including water tank / toilet tanks (where accessible).
- Fit out, linings and vessel interior. Insulation. External coatings. Cratch and fore and aft covers. Windows and portholes. Decks and deck boards. Firefighting and safety equipment. Ventilation.

Hull Only
- Survey boat hull for cruising damage and build quality. Plate condition and weld patterns to the base plate, counter floor and hull sides. Outlets, freeboard and hull penetrations. Plate thickness particularly at vulnerable areas.
- Pitting depth & Weedhatch assembly.
- Cabin fabrication, condition and fixtures.
- Stern gear / propulsion and rudder assemblies.

In-Water Only
- Survey boat engine and gearbox condition and installation, the engine is run under load for a minimum of one hour.
- Electric 12v system & 240v system. Gas system. Plumbing, domestic water and heating systems including water tank / toilet tanks (where accessible).
- Fit out, linings and vessel interior. Insulation. External coatings. Cratch and fore and aft covers. Windows and portholes. Decks and deck boards. Firefighting and safety equipment. Ventilation.

Valuations
This is the process of determining the market value of a boat. This involves assessing various factors such as the boat builder and spec, age, condition, engine hours, additional equipment and upgrades, any works carried out on the boat, all relevant paper work being presented and survey history. Other methods as well as viewing will be used to conduct a valuation such as, online research and market comparisons to ensure accuracy.
The valuation can be used for many purposes, such a buying or selling a boat, insurance purposes, loan purposes or legal purposes.
Pre-Purchase & Small Craft Surveys - under 24m - Steel & Alloy
Additional Surveying Services - Heritage or Pre 1940's Vessels
Workboats - under 24m <500GT
Small Craft Surveys up to 24m: Insurance &Finance
Small Craft Surveys up to 24m: Valuation Surveys
Small Craft Surveys up to 24m: Inland Waterway Surveys - Steel
Contact Us
Office Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm
​Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Please note: Office hours are for administrative purposes only and do not reflect our surveying or on-site hours