Why did I start UnderSee.life?
I’m a sailor with a boat in the harbor. I’m very good at keeping my boat ship shape related to everything I can see above the waterline. But it’s a pain to see how the boat is doing underwater.
I wanted a way to keep up with happening beneath the water. As a certified diver, I dove my boat during the summers, but I was less enthusiastic about jumping underwater during the winter, when my boat was most at risk.
After 5 years of research, I found an ROV that would allow me to carefully look at my hull, record the results, and even help me recover valuable gear I lost overboard.
Does a hull video replace my annual haul-out?
Not at all. But a hull video can help you uncover issues early before a small problem becomes a bigger problem. And you can review the video with your harbor shipwright ahead of your haul-out to better plan for all necessary and recommended repairs.
What are the economics of a hull video?
Laydays (sitting “on the hard”) typically costs $3+ per foot. An average 32′ sailboat costs $96 per day.
Knowing exactly what needs attention means your shipwright can pre-order the right parts ahead of your haul-out. Taking the surprise and guess work out of what “lives underneath” can also allow you and the yard to schedule your haul-out when it’s safest and most convenient for you.
UnderSee videos pay for themselves if you reduce your yard time by 1.5 days.
What are the alternatives to UnderSee.life?
Your monthly diver might be able to make a quick GoPro video for you. But they are on a tight schedule and may not be able to video your boat right away or at your convenience.
I also like having my boat video’d by an independent provider so I can confirm the great work my monthly dive cleaners are doing. Or, you can throw on our wetsuit, mask, and hold your breath for 10 minutes.
Can I have a live inspection?
Yes! One of the benefits of working with me is that I can “live-cast” your hull video inspection so you can see your hull in real time. We can look at various parts of your hull, and you can guide me to any areas of concern for a closer look.