Finding the right mooring inspector can feel like navigating a sea of options. At OnBuoy, we understand the importance of choosing a reputable professional to ensure your mooring's safety and compliance.
Rest assured, all OnBuoy-affiliated inspectors have the necessary certifications and qualifications. We prioritize quality and safety, and we carefully select our partners based on their expertise, reputation, and commitment to excellence. However, we also respect that every person's needs are unique, and you may prefer to explore other options outside of our network.
Here are some steps to help you find the right mooring inspector for your needs:
- Location: Check if the inspector operates in your area. Some specialize in specific regions or types of moorings.
- Experience: Ask about their experience inspecting similar moorings to yours. Consider their familiarity with the local environment and specific challenges.
- Reputation: Get referrals from other boaters and marinas or check online reviews for unbiased opinions.
- Cost: Compare rates and services offered by different inspectors. Be wary of excessively low or high prices. Many installers offer a better rate for inspections if you sign up for an annual inspection plan. Inspecting your moorage annually is a good idea and one we recommend.
While we encourage you to do your own research, OnBuoy has partnered with several highly-regarded mooring installers and inspectors who consistently meet our high standards:
Mooring buoy installers & inspectors
Alpha Marine Installations: Jim at Alpha Marine is the undisputed authority on environmentally friendly helix anchor systems. He's been working and diving in Puget Sound waters since before most of us had our boating licenses. With thousands of installations under his belt, you'd be hard pressed to find an inspector with more experience. You can contact Jim directly at jimsalphamarine@gmail.com or 360-978-5157.
Northwest Mooring Services: This family-owned business has been a trusted name in mooring installations and inspections for years. Known for their professionalism, efficiency and thoroughness, Northwest Mooring Services offers comprehensive inspections throughout Puget Sound.
NW Mooring Services is one of the fastest growing mooring installation and inspection teams in the PNW with multiple crews available to cover a variety of marine services throughout the Puget Sound. They have expanded their services to include new mooring installations, dock repair, towing, and hull cleaning.
You can contact Jake directly for any of these services at nwmooringservices@gmail.com or at 425-658-BUOY.
Dave's Dive Services: In business since 2005, Dave's Dive Services is one of the most trusted dive services in the Pacific Northwest. Following Dave's retirement in 2020, Christopher Freeland took over the business with 16 years of dive experience and a commitment to quality and integrity in everything they do. In addition to mooring buoy installations, maintenance, and dock cleanings, Chris has expanded the list of services they provide to include hull cleanings, zinc replacements, salvage services and more. Specializing in the South Sound, Chris and his team are known for their meticulous inspections, friendly service, and competitive rates. You can contact Chris directly at info@davesdiveservices.com or 253-222-4645.
Private boat dock installers & inspectors
The team at Seaborn Pile Driving have been leading the industry in Seattle marine construction since 1947. They specialize in freshwater installations and offer services ranging from new construction and permitting for private residential docks, to upgrading, repairing, or replacing existing docks or residential bulkheads.
They pride themselves on top-notch customer service and can help bring your vision for your lakefront property to life - from concept, to permitting, to final construction, and maintenance. You can contact them directly at info@seabornpiledriving.com or at (206) 236-1700.
OnBuoy is always looking to expand our network of trusted installers and inspectors! If you've worked with a fantastic professional we haven't yet partnered with, please let us know. We're always happy to hear recommendations and add qualified individuals to our roster.
We hope this information helps you find the perfect mooring inspector to ensure your peace of mind and the safety of your vessel. Enjoy exploring the open waters!