Today we’d like to introduce you to John Seckman.
Hi John, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a graduate of Texas A&M University at Galveston, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and obtained my USCG 3rd Mate license in 2007. Following graduation, I spent several years offshore, sailing the world as a licensed mate and master aboard commercial and offshore supply vessels. My time at sea provided me with hands-on experience in vessel operations, navigation, and leadership in some of the most demanding maritime environments.
In 2016, seeking a more settled life, I transitioned into Marine Surveying—a career that allowed me to stay connected to the maritime industry while establishing roots on shore. After learning the trade and building a client base, I founded my own marine surveying business. Nearly a decade later, I am proud to hold the designation of Accredited Marine Surveyor (AMS) through the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS).
My work focuses primarily on pre-purchase surveys, helping prospective boat owners make informed decisions through comprehensive inspections. I also perform insurance surveys and assessments to assist owners in obtaining or renewing marine insurance coverage. My approach is thorough, honest, and driven by a deep respect for both vessels and the people who own them.
Beyond my career, I’m a proud husband to a U.S. Army veteran who has served three overseas tours during her 18 years of service and continues to serve in the Reserves. Together, we’re raising three young children—our two-year-old and ten-month-old twins—which keeps life full, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Becoming a marine surveyor was a major transition, and like many who move from offshore work to starting a business, the road had its bumps. One of the biggest challenges was the lack of clear guidance or mentorship in the field. Marine surveying is a niche industry, and finding people willing—or even able—to help you learn the ropes can be tough. It often felt like I had to figure things out on my own.
When I first started, I had to rely heavily on the savings I’d built up during my offshore career just to stay afloat while trying to get the business off the ground. There were no guarantees—just a lot of hustle, learning through experience, and a determination to build a reputation one job at a time. It took time for my name to get out there and for word-of-mouth to kick in, but eventually, the work started coming in steadily.
Looking back, those early challenges taught me a lot about persistence, patience, and the value of doing honest, quality work. They helped shape the surveyor and business owner I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At the heart of our business is a commitment to being honest, ethical, and reliable. Whether you’re buying your first boat or adding to a fleet, we understand how important it is to have a clear, unbiased understanding of a vessel’s condition. That’s where we come in.
We specialize in marine surveys for pre-purchase evaluations and insurance purposes, providing detailed, accurate reports that help clients make informed decisions. Our surveys are trusted by both boat buyers and insurance companies because of our reputation for being thorough, impartial, and highly professional.
We might not always deliver great news about a vessel—but we always deliver the truth. Our clients know they’re getting a survey that’s honest, comprehensive, and performed to the highest standards in the industry.
What truly sets us apart is a combination of real-world maritime experience, youthful energy, and professional accreditation. As one of the youngest Accredited Marine Surveyors (AMS) with the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), I bring both deep industry knowledge and physical ability to the job. My age is an asset—I’m nimble, physically fit, and able to access confined or hard-to-reach spaces that others may not. This means I can inspect areas of the vessel that are often overlooked, giving clients a more complete and accurate assessment.
Before becoming a marine surveyor, I spent years working offshore as a licensed mate and master on commercial vessels, navigating in real-world conditions all over the globe. That hands-on experience gives me a unique perspective when evaluating boats—not just how they look, but how they’re likely to perform and hold up over time.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. My business was built on referrals and repeat customers, not flashy marketing. People come to me because they know they’ll get straight answers, professional service, and a surveyor who treats every vessel inspection with the same care and attention as if it were his own.
If you’re looking for a marine surveyor who blends modern capability with traditional values, you’ve come to the right place.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to collaboration and connection within the marine industry. Whether you’re a fellow marine professional or a boat owner looking for reliable expertise, I’d be glad to work with you.
I frequently collaborate with marine engine surveyors, marine electricians, and marine investigators, especially on more complex pre-purchase or insurance cases. I believe that working with specialists brings added value to the client and ensures every aspect of a vessel is evaluated with expert-level care.
If you’re a marine tradesperson or technician interested in partnering on surveys, inspections, or referrals, feel free to reach out. I value strong professional relationships built on trust, clear communication, and shared standards of excellence.
If you’re a boat buyer, seller, or insurance provider, I’d be happy to talk about how I can assist with your marine surveying needs.
You can support the business by referring clients, recommending our services, or simply by reaching out to say hello and make a connection.
Pricing:
- 26$ per foot plus travel costs to and from the boat
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southernmarinesurveying.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southernmarinesurveying
