Meet Mark P. Wilson
Founder & Lead Surveyor at Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims
At Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims, we are led by Mark P. Wilson, a seasoned USCG 100t Master Merchant Mariner, SAMS AMS-certified surveyor, and experienced marine professional with over 30 years of expertise in the maritime industry. Mark’s extensive background in marine operations, engineering, and technical analysis sets him apart as a trusted authority in marine surveying and damage claim investigations.
Mark has dedicated his career to the maritime industry, providing expert services that include comprehensive vessel surveys, damage claims assessments, accident investigations, and yacht management. His dual expertise as a captain and a certified marine surveyor gives him a unique perspective on both the operational and structural integrity of vessels, making him an invaluable resource for yacht buyers, insurance companies, and legal professionals.
Professional Summary
Mark P. Wilson is an accomplished marine professional who combines his knowledge of vessel operations with an exceptional engineering background. As the founder of Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims, Mark has dedicated his career to providing detailed, accurate, and reliable marine surveys for both new and used vessels. His services are designed to give buyers, insurers, sellers, and legal professionals the information they need to make informed decisions regarding marine investments, damage claims, and legal matters.
Throughout his career, Mark has worked with a diverse range of clients, including insurance companies, attorneys, and law enforcement agencies. His in-depth knowledge of maritime law, vessel operations, and structural integrity ensures that all surveys and damage claims investigations are completed with the highest level of professionalism and technical accuracy.
Mark's background includes experience as a vessel captain, where he managed long-range yacht deliveries and hurricane evacuations, and as a marine surveyor, providing comprehensive inspections for both recreational and commercial vessels. In addition, Mark has extensive expertise in damage claim investigations, applying root cause analysis and failure analysis techniques to resolve complex issues.
Mariner Credentials
Mark P. Wilson’s career is built on a foundation of rigorous training and extensive certification. His USCG 100t Master Merchant Mariner license, combined with multiple professional certifications, ensures that every survey he conducts is based on the most current industry standards and safety protocols. His qualifications include:
USCG 100t Master Merchant Mariner
(200-mile Near Coastal)
Mark is on his 6th issue of his USCG Merchant Mariner 100t master license that dates back to 1998. He is licensed to operate inspected vessels up to 100t and up to 200-nile near coast along with assistance towing endorsement, making him fully equipped to handle both large and small vessel surveys and deliveries.
SAMS AMS® Certification
(Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors)
As an accredited marine surveyor through SAMS, Mark is recognized as an expert in vessel surveying and damage claims investigations. The AMS designation ensures that he adheres to the highest standards in the industry and continuously advances his knowledge through continuing education and hands-on experience.
ABYC Membership
(American Boat and Yacht Council)
Mark is a member of the ABYC, which is the leading organization for marine standards in boat construction, systems, and safety. This membership ensures that Mark’s surveys are conducted in line with the latest ABYC safety and construction guidelines.
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
Mark’s background in Six Sigma process improvement techniques enhances his ability to perform detailed failure analysis, root cause analysis, and material fatigue evaluations. This certification enables him to identify and resolve complex issues related to vessel performance, structural integrity, and damage claims.
IAMI Membership
(International Association of Marine Investigators)
Mark’s active membership in IAMI further reinforces his qualifications as a professional in marine investigations, specializing in accident analysis and damage assessments.
FMIU Membership
(Florida Marine Intelligence Unit)
As a member of the Florida Marine Intelligence Unit, Mark is involved in efforts to protect maritime assets and conduct investigations related to maritime incidents, theft, and fraud.
Professional Experience
2018 – Present: Founder and Lead Surveyor, Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims
Since founding Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims, Mark has led the company in providing comprehensive marine surveys, damage claim investigations, and vessel management services. His team has worked on a wide range of vessels, from luxury yachts to commercial vessels, delivering accurate, detailed reports that provide valuable insight into a vessel’s condition and market value.
Mark personally conducts surveys, providing clients with a Condition and Value Survey that evaluates a vessel’s operational performance, systems, hull integrity, and more. He also specializes in damage claims, utilizing his expertise in root cause analysis to provide thorough assessments of damage and offer recommendations for repairs or replacements. In addition to surveying, Mark oversees the yacht management division, offering services such as routine maintenance, vessel deliveries, and captain-for-hire services.
2005 – 2018: Sr. Director of Engineering, DRS Technologies
In his previous role as Sr. Director of Engineering at DRS Technologies, Mark managed engineering teams and led product design, materials analysis, and failure analysis efforts across various divisions. His work focused on developing and refining mechanical systems for military and commercial applications, where he applied his deep technical expertise to improve product reliability and performance. His work in failure analysis and root cause investigations is highly transferable to his current role as a marine surveyor, where he analyzes vessel performance and damage.
1999 – 2008: Owner and Captain, Phantom Fishing Charters, Inc.
Mark operated his own offshore charter business, Phantom Fishing Charters, where he provided captain-for-hire services for private yacht deliveries and fishing excursions. His experience includes managing long-range yacht deliveries from the Great Lakes to Florida, navigating through multiple Army Corps waterway lock systems. Mark also played a key role in hurricane evacuations, ensuring vessels were safely moved out of harm’s way.
Technical Certifications
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NMEA 0400 Certified Installation Standards
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Marine Electronics Installation Certification (MEI)
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PADI Open Water Diver Certification
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Failure Analysis (FEA) Simulation & Certification
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Geometric Tolerance & Analysis Certification
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2008 Program Management Institute (PMI / PMP) Certification - University of Florida
These certifications ensure that Mark is fully equipped to handle complex vessel systems, whether conducting a simple survey or providing detailed failure analysis for damage claims.
Publications & Marine Product Reviews
Mark has contributed extensively to marine industry publications, including Florida Sportsman Magazine and Coastal Angler Magazine, where he has written technical product reviews and DIY seminars. His expertise is frequently sought after for articles on marine safety, vessel maintenance, and product innovations.
Experience
Mark P. Wilson’s wealth of experience in marine operations, surveying, and damage claims investigation ensures that Wilson Yacht Survey & Damage Claims remains one of the most trusted names in the industry. Whether you need an in-depth Condition and Value Survey, a damage claim investigation, or expert maritime consultations, Mark and his team are here to offer the expertise you need to make confident and informed decisions.
