Fidelity Marine Survey

Operating out of Port Charlotte, Florida, Fidelity Marine Survey brings over four decades of hands-on marine experience to boat owners and buyers throughout the Southwest Florida region. Led by Mike, a veteran of the United States Navy who began his career as a Marine Engineer (Engineman) in 1979, the company combines military precision with deep technical expertise in vessel evaluation and marine systems analysis. Mike's background as one of the last US Navy wooden ship sailors provides a unique perspective on traditional and modern boat construction alike.

The surveying practice draws on Mike's extensive 30-plus years serving as Chief Engineer on vessels up to 150 tons, where he developed an intimate understanding of marine propulsion systems, mechanical components, and the operational demands placed on recreational and commercial watercraft. This real-world experience is complemented by formal credentials including ABYC certification and graduation from Chapman's School of Seamanship Survey program. Before relocating to Punta Gorda, Mike spent the majority of his career in Michigan, including time as a Mechanical/Applications Engineer at Ford specializing in mobile equipment—experience that sharpened his analytical approach to mechanical systems diagnostics.

Fidelity Marine Survey offers comprehensive boat surveying and inspection services tailored to meet the specific needs of buyers, owners, and insurance companies. Their survey offerings include pre-purchase inspections that help prospective buyers make informed decisions about vessel acquisitions, insurance surveys that document condition and value for underwriting purposes, and general condition assessments for existing owners who want to understand their boat's current state and maintenance requirements. Every inspection adheres to CFR regulations and ABYC standards, ensuring thorough evaluation of all onboard systems from hull integrity to propulsion components.

The company's guiding principles reflect a methodical, engineering-driven approach: systematically evaluate all vessel systems, provide clear recommendations based on findings, accurately determine the current condition of the boat, and establish fair market value. Mike's self-described "hawkish attitude" means no detail goes unexamined during the survey process. Reports generated by Fidelity Marine Survey are designed to be both extensive and accessible, translating complex technical findings into documentation that owners, buyers, and insurers can readily understand and act upon. The company maintains strict confidentiality standards, with clients retaining control over who views their survey results.

With more than 40 years of experience spanning mechanical systems from marine engines to small equipment, and a career that includes both naval service and automotive engineering, Fidelity Marine Survey offers Southwest Florida boat owners access to surveying expertise grounded in practical knowledge rather than purely academic credentials. The business serves the greater Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte area with mobile inspection services, bringing their evaluation capabilities directly to vessels wherever they're located throughout the region.