Frequently Asked Questions

What type of boats do you deliver?

We deliver all sized sailing and motor vessels on the water under their own power. They can be privately owned, commercial or charter vessels and we often deliver for yacht brokers and new boat owners. We deliver boats for owners who are too busy to make the trip, don’t care to make the trip alone or would like professional assistance because the trip is to windward. We also perform sea trials and pre-purchase inspections.

What is your experience?

We are experienced licensed U.S. Coast Guard commercial captains with years of sea time and a stack of discharges. Our background comes from the commercial world of deep draft ships, tugs, cruise boats, tour boats, charter boats and yachts. We are boat owners ourselves and have successfully operated and managed motor and sailing charter vessels in Texas and Florida. We have navigated the waters from Maine all down the East coast to the Bahamas and the Gulf Coast.

What is your training and qualifications?

We have all the current U.S. Coast Guard and International STCW qualifications and licenses required to operate vessels up to 100 gross tons as master near coastal vessels. Specifically, our captains have basic Firefighting, STCW 95, Water Survival, FCC Marine Radio Operator’s License. All captains and crew have a current Drug-Free Certificate.

Who will perform the delivery?

We are not a broker and actually perform all deliveries ourselves. Our group of captains and crew have worked and sailed together for years, both professionally and recreationally. Everyone that works for us is carefully screened and always performs a delivery or two with the owner to verify their ability and qualifications and to assure that they are capable and someone that we would want to represent our company.

Are you insured?

Yes, we are insured by CNA Marine, New York, N.Y. We have $300,000 liability, $500,000 fuel and other spill liability, $300,000 uninsured boater coverage, we carry Longshoreman and Harbor Workers Compensation per the states statute limit. We are insured for $10,000 in medical payments for personal injury to the captain and crew. 

Does the boat need to be insured?

Yes. We require that the owner carry insurance on the vessel to be delivered and cannot do the delivery without insurance. Our insurance only covers liability and injury of our captains and crews. We will need a copy of the cover page of your policy showing the effective dates, boat identification and the Protection and Indemnity (P&I) section of your policy showing that all of our captain and crewmembers are covered by the policy.

Can I come along?

Yes, of course and it is encouraged. This is the best time to learn about your vessel's capabilities and improve your own skills and comfort level on the trip. Depending on the vessel and the route, we might require an additional mate or deckhand to round out the watch bill.

What route will you take?

This depends on the type of vessel, time of year, weather conditions and owner preference. There is usually more than one way to a destination. Our first concern is for the safety of the vessel and those aboard her. The route for a 35’ sailboat going to Key West from Galveston would be different than a 100’ twin-screw motor yacht. 

What condition does the vessel need to be in?

In a word, seaworthy and mechanically sound. This means clean fuel tanks, good sails, functional well running and maintained engine, adequate engine spares (i.e. fuel filters, belts, raw water pump and impellers, etc.). Running and standing rigging in good condition, current flare kit, all PFD’s and fire extinguishers in good condition and non-expired.

What needs to be onboard the vessel?

All USCG required safety equipment. Charts and pilots for the area to be navigated. Cooking and eating utensils. Several spare fuel filters, spare engine parts, tools, spare lines, fenders, 406 EPIRB for ocean voyages and a working VHF Radio.

What happens if it is not ready for the voyage?

When we come onboard, we will assess the vessel and prepare a written report of any deficiencies. You will be responsible for correcting these deficiencies before departure. 

How do I pay for this service?

You pay a deposit and advance for all transportation, vessel expenses, supplies, fuel and provisioning. We will keep an accounting that details all expenses incurred during the voyage. We will submit a final bill upon completion of the delivery.  

What are your terms?

  1. 50 % Deposit to book a time slot.
  2. Transportation, vessel expenses and provisioning paid up front.
  3. Balance due upon arrival.

Am I charged for weather delays?

Yes, our lay day charge is not the same as our daily delivery rate. I assure you we will not waste the time sitting at dock, but will perform any tasks that need to be done on the vessel while we wait for a weather window. 

Am I charged for mechanical delays?

Every situation is unique and will be addressed appropriately when the time comes. If it is a large repair that can not be made by our crew we will stay busy while the repairs are made. 

What happens if repairs are needed along the way?

We will make repairs underway within our capability. Otherwise we will get to the nearest marina and contact you immediately for your approval before any repairs are done.

What happens if the vessel becomes unseaworthy or incapable of continuing safely?

We will immediately get to the nearest port and contact you.

How many hours are made underway each day?

This depends on the vessel, route and crew. On an ocean route with our crews aboard, we'll sail round the clock. In the ICW we generally sail at least 12 hours a day and stop for the night. Of course, if the owner is aboard and desires to do something else, we are flexible.

Is a recent survey needed?

This would be ideal, but if a survey was done within the past two years we would like to have a copy as well as any recent work that was performed.

How do I book a delivery?

Call 281-830-1670 to schedule a delivery or get a quote.

 

 

Contact Information:

Maudlin Marine

Texas Marine Surveyors

 

Nick Maudlin
captnickm@gmail.com
Phone: 281 830-1670

 

 

P.O. Box 533

Kemah, TX 77565

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