Expertise You Can
Trust at Sea
Todd Sparling Marine Services produces survey reports of the highest quality and caliber for recreational and commercial vessels. Independent, impartial, and conducted with over thirty years of hands-on maritime experience.
A Lifetime on the Water,
Working for You
Todd Sparling grew up on the water along the Massachusetts coast and has spent his entire professional life in the marine industry — from the helm of commercial and ocean-going vessels to the engine rooms of unlimited horsepower ships. That depth of experience is what sets TSMS apart.
A United States Coast Guard licensed Master of Unlimited Tonnage Upon Oceans and Chief Engineer of Unlimited Horsepower Steam and Motor Vessels, Todd brings a level of technical authority to every survey that few surveyors can match. Anyone who knows him will tell you of his utmost attention to detail and his unfailing commitment to doing things properly.
Todd is a member of the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS), the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME), the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS), and the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). He operates with strict independence from brokers, dealers, and yards — our findings serve only our clients.
Whether you are purchasing a family cruiser, insuring a commercial fleet, resolving a legal dispute, or overseeing a new construction project, TSMS delivers the professional, impartial expertise you need to make confident decisions.
Speak with Todd
65 Robert Road · Marblehead, MA 01945
Our Services
TSMS produces the highest quality, detail-oriented survey reports for recreational and commercial clients. We offer a complete range of surveys accepted by every major bank, insurer, and underwriter — covering everything from a first family yacht to ocean-going commercial tonnage.
Comprehensive condition and valuation assessments for sail and power vessels before purchase — covering hull, deck, rig, machinery, systems, and safety equipment. Know exactly what you are buying before you sign.
Condition and valuation reports prepared to the exacting standards required by underwriters, covering all aspects of seaworthiness and risk. Accepted by every major marine insurance provider.
Independent assessment of storm, grounding, collision, fire, or mechanical damage — providing clear, defensible findings for insurance claims, litigation, and repair planning.
Expert reports and oral testimony in marine disputes, arbitration, and legal proceedings. Reports prepared to meet the standards of the court and supported by Todd's extensive professional credentials.
Comprehensive condition assessments combined with market and replacement valuations of recreational yachts, commercial vessels, and working craft — for sale, probate, partnership dissolution, financing, or insurance purposes.
Inspection and documentation of cargo condition, stowage, and securing arrangements for vessels engaged in commercial trade — supporting cargo claims and underwriter requirements.
Detailed H&M surveys covering structural integrity, propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, and electrical installations for commercial and ocean-going vessels — prepared for underwriters and flag state requirements.
Protection and Indemnity surveys conducted on behalf of P&I clubs and their members — providing independent condition assessments, incident investigations, and documentation to support P&I claims and coverage requirements.
Detailed condition surveys at the commencement and redelivery of charter — documenting vessel state, bunkers, consumables, and any damage to establish a clear baseline and protect both owner and charterer from disputed claims.
Assessment of vessel fitness and suitability for a specific intended purpose, voyage, or trade — including cargo compatibility, route assessment, and regulatory compliance review.
Review and analysis of vessel certificates, classification records, maintenance logs, stability booklets, and regulatory compliance documentation — identifying deficiencies before they become liabilities.
On-site supervision and representation during repair, refit, or conversion work — ensuring work is performed to specification, on schedule, and to the standard the owner is paying for.
Marine Warranty Surveys (MWS) conducted on behalf of underwriters for towage, heavy lifts, ocean transports, and other high-risk marine operations — assessing procedures, equipment, and compliance with warranty conditions prior to authorizing a Letter of Undertaking.
Stage-by-stage construction inspections and delivery surveys for both commercial and recreational new builds — verifying build quality, specification compliance, and commissioning standards for owner, financier, or insurer.
Specialist advice on vessel acquisition strategy, specification review, refit planning, flag state and class requirements, and technical matters for private owners, legal professionals, and commercial operators.
The Benefits of a Professional
Marine Survey
A vessel is far more than what meets the eye. Fiberglass, engines, electronics, plumbing, and machinery are all precision systems that must have been properly maintained throughout a vessel's life. We find the problems before you sign the purchase agreement — potentially saving you thousands of dollars and years of frustration.
Most lenders and every marine insurer require a current survey before extending coverage or financing. TSMS survey reports are accepted by all major marine insurance companies and financial institutions. Our reports are clear, thorough, and formatted to meet underwriter requirements without delay.
Survey findings routinely reveal deficiencies that can be used to renegotiate the purchase price or require the seller to complete repairs prior to closing. The cost of a professional survey almost always delivers a return that far exceeds the fee — and gives you peace of mind that no amount of money can replace.
For commercial operators, charterers, and insurers, a professionally prepared survey report is an essential risk management document. Todd's USCG credentials, NAMS membership, and decades of commercial marine experience mean his reports carry the authority needed in arbitration, litigation, and regulatory proceedings.
Beyond the financial considerations, a survey is fundamentally a safety assessment. Hidden structural problems, compromised through-hull fittings, outdated safety equipment, or faulty electrical systems can put lives at risk. TSMS evaluates every safety-critical system so you can go to sea with confidence.
Unlike a broker or yard inspector, TSMS has no commercial interest in the outcome of any survey. We are engaged exclusively by the client, and our only obligation is to report what we find — honestly and completely. That independence is the foundation of everything we do.
Our Founding Principles
No commercial ties to brokers, yards, or dealers. Our findings serve only our client.
Honest, unvarnished assessments — even when the findings are unwelcome.
Three decades of commercial and recreational maritime knowledge applied to every survey.
Reports written in plain English — clear, structured, and immediately actionable.
The Survey Process
Contact Todd with vessel details and your requirements. We confirm scope, availability, and fees — typically within one working day.
We issue a formal Letter of Engagement confirming scope and terms, accompanied by a Document Request — a checklist of vessel records, certificates, and maintenance history required prior to survey.
A thorough on-board inspection: hull, deck, rig, machinery, safety gear, electrical systems, and a sea trial where applicable.
A comprehensive, photographic report delivered within agreed timescales — clearly structured, written in plain English, and accepted by all major insurers and lenders.
Todd is available to discuss findings, clarify recommendations, and assist with next steps — including repair negotiations and re-survey if required.
The report was thorough, well-written, and gave us complete confidence in our decision. Todd identified issues we'd never have spotted ourselves — saving us considerably more than the survey fee.
Request a Survey
or Consultation
We welcome enquiries from private owners, brokers, insurers, commercial operators, and legal professionals. Please use the form or contact Todd directly — we respond within one working day.
Marblehead, MA 01945
All enquiries are treated in strict confidence. We do not share your details with third parties.