A Vessel Berthing Equipment Damage Survey is a professional inspection service that assesses and documents any damage caused by a ship’s interaction with port and berthing equipment. These include quay walls, fenders, cranes, loading/unloading gear, and mooring fixtures. The survey ensures both the vessel and port facilities remain safe, minimizes financial losses, and provides official documentation for insurance purposes.

Even minor contact between a vessel and quay equipment can compromise hull integrity or cause equipment damage over time. Conducting a berthing equipment damage survey allows shipowners, operators, and insurers to identify risks early, prevent further deterioration, and implement corrective measures efficiently.

The survey process begins when the vessel approaches the port and continues until departure. Surveyors systematically inspect all areas of potential contact between the ship and berthing equipment:

1. Preliminary Review and Preparation

• Review vessel and port operation plans.

• Identify high-risk contact points on berthing equipment.

• Examine previous damage reports and maintenance records.

2. On-Site Detailed Inspection

Surveyors carefully check hull sides, deck structures, cranes, and loading gear. Points where the vessel contacts fenders or quay walls are assessed for paint scratches, dents, or structural deformations. Ultrasonic measurement devices, laser scanners, and high-resolution photography are often used to quantify damage.

3. Damage Reporting and Recommendations

All identified damage is documented in a technical report containing photographs, measurement results, classification of damage severity, and preventive or corrective recommendations. This report is an official record for insurers and shipowners, and provides guidance to improve port operations and vessel safety.

Damage to berthing equipment can result in significant costs for both the vessel and the port. Minor collisions can cause hull deformation, dented hatch covers, or other structural issues. Port cranes, fenders, and quay structures may also be damaged, causing operational delays and insurance claims.

A professional berthing equipment damage survey mitigates these risks. Detailed inspections protect both vessel and port assets, provide legal and insurance documentation, and enhance operational efficiency. Regular surveys also enable early detection of potential issues, preventing costly repairs and ensuring safe maritime operations.