There are two national organizations to which many professional marine surveyors belong: The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), and the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS). Both associations are highly respected within the industry, both require surveyors to pass a stringent testing process to join and both require continuing education to maintain membership status. The inclusion here of a person’s SAMS or NAMS designations is meant to serve as a helpful guideline when choosing a professional marine surveyor, and is not meant to be considered an endorsement or recommendation of one surveyor over another. Many quality marine surveyors belong to neither organization. Following is a short profile of each association.

  SOCIETY OF ACCREDITED MARINE SURVEYORS®

Founded in 1987, SAMS® is an organization of Professional Marine Surveyors who have come together to promote the good image and general well being of their chosen profession. Accredited Marine Surveyors® are surveyors who have accumulated at least five years surveying experience, and have proven the technical skills necessary for designation as AMS®. There is, through the Surveyor Associate program, the opportunity for less experienced members to participate in SAMS® and hone their skills under the tutelage of Accredited Marine Surveyors®.

Accredited Marine Surveyors® are expected to follow a course of continuing education to maintain their accreditation. Members are guided by a code of ethics and are encouraged to participate in other organizations relative to the marine field. SAMS® members are committed to enhancing the profession of marine surveying, avoiding prejudice, conflict of interest, and maintaining professional independence.

For more information on SAMS or to find a professional SAMS marine surveyor in your region,
visit http://www.marinesurvey.org/


  NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MARINE SURVEYORS

The oldest of the national surveyors organizations, the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS) is one of the most respected groups of marine surveyors, featuring professionals located throughout the country. Certified Marine Surveyors (CMS) are full time, highly qualified marine surveyors who must pass through a rigorous procedure for certification, complete an annual continuing education program and not be engaged in any other marine activity to avoid a possible conflict of interest. NAMS also maintains a program for Associate Members and operates and Apprentice Program for qualified applicants.

For more information on NAMS or to find a professional NAMS marine surveyor in your region,
visit www.nam-cms.org/