Testimonials
High Standards = Happy Customers!
Our genuine care and vast experience results in competant, efficient service and happy customers!
Here is what some of them have had to say.
RTM was recommended by other cruisers and we used the team for a survey, engine service and some fibreglassing work.
Most valuable to us though was Rodβs help in troubleshooting a few tricky challenges we had with the rudder and propeller. Weβre new to boats and have a new (old) boat. Our first haul out was pretty stressful at times, and in a very busy period Rod was in touch regularly to help us diagnose and address these issues.
Thanks for the generosity of your advice and support Rod.
Most valuable to us though was Rodβs help in troubleshooting a few tricky challenges we had with the rudder and propeller. Weβre new to boats and have a new (old) boat. Our first haul out was pretty stressful at times, and in a very busy period Rod was in touch regularly to help us diagnose and address these issues.
Thanks for the generosity of your advice and support Rod.
Rachel Eberhard & Richard Hurl
Insurance Condition Survey & DIAGNOSTICS
Our experience with Rod and his team at RTM was β utterly professionalβ.
We found that from diagnostics, to proposal, to rectify issue, and then getting the job done was all done on time and with constant updates as to the work progress .
We will definitely use their services if need in the future and highly recommend RTM
We found that from diagnostics, to proposal, to rectify issue, and then getting the job done was all done on time and with constant updates as to the work progress .
We will definitely use their services if need in the future and highly recommend RTM
Allan & Vicki Franklin
CONSULTING & DIAGNOSTICS
I had my sailboat for insurance purposes lifted and inspected by Rod and his team.
Rod not only did a swift inspection but gave me good advice on business and the boat. Rod gave me the impression of having a genuine interest in the customers perspective and did not stop to share some personal stories in a friendly chat.
I can highly recommend his service and advice and I will certainly return.
Rod not only did a swift inspection but gave me good advice on business and the boat. Rod gave me the impression of having a genuine interest in the customers perspective and did not stop to share some personal stories in a friendly chat.
I can highly recommend his service and advice and I will certainly return.
Andreas
Insurance Condition Survey
We engaged RTM to undertake a pre-purchase inspection on a houseboat we were considering buying. From our first contact, Renee was very helpful. She described the process, provided a proposal for services including a quote, and co-ordinated our booking.
On the day, Rod undertook a comprehensive on water, dry stand and sea trial inspection. His report was delivered within the timeframe indicated in the proposal for services and was very comprehensive.
Where issues were indicated, Rod (without prejudice) offered suggestions as to their seriousness and potential rectification methods.
Throughout the preliminary, inspection and reporting processes, we were very impressed with Rod, Renee and RTMβs knowledge, professionalism and attention to detail.
We highly recommend RTM for your marine inspections, needs and services.
On the day, Rod undertook a comprehensive on water, dry stand and sea trial inspection. His report was delivered within the timeframe indicated in the proposal for services and was very comprehensive.
Where issues were indicated, Rod (without prejudice) offered suggestions as to their seriousness and potential rectification methods.
Throughout the preliminary, inspection and reporting processes, we were very impressed with Rod, Renee and RTMβs knowledge, professionalism and attention to detail.
We highly recommend RTM for your marine inspections, needs and services.
Andrew and Glenda Owen
Pre-purchase Survey
I just wanted to thank you again for all of your assistance with the survey process for the purchase of my Riviera 51.
As I am new to bigger diesel boats, and the complexities that come with them, your involvement in the pre-purchase survey brought significant peace of mind for me.
I was greatly impressed by the amount of time you took to inspect the boat, and the level of detail you went into for each element of the hull and machinery.
You clearly have an extensive knowledge in your field, and I was grateful for the knowledge you passed onto me along the way. Also having Jason Chiswell from Extreme Marine working in with you to provide further investigation and oil analysis for the motors, was well worth the small additional cost, and gave me further confidence in what I was buying.
Your written report was provided in a very timely manner, and excellent in the detail of the areas assessed, but also very easy for me to follow and understand.
I believe you present excellent value for money in your services, particularly when considering the costs associated with not only buying a boat, but also the potential costs of buying a boat that may have issues with it.
I will be recommending your services to all of my friends looking to buy boats, and will certainly be using you again for any other boat I buy in the future.
Please donβt ever to hesitate send any one to me for a recommendation for your services, as they would be crazy not to utilise your skill set and knowledge.
Thanks so much!
As I am new to bigger diesel boats, and the complexities that come with them, your involvement in the pre-purchase survey brought significant peace of mind for me.
I was greatly impressed by the amount of time you took to inspect the boat, and the level of detail you went into for each element of the hull and machinery.
You clearly have an extensive knowledge in your field, and I was grateful for the knowledge you passed onto me along the way. Also having Jason Chiswell from Extreme Marine working in with you to provide further investigation and oil analysis for the motors, was well worth the small additional cost, and gave me further confidence in what I was buying.
Your written report was provided in a very timely manner, and excellent in the detail of the areas assessed, but also very easy for me to follow and understand.
I believe you present excellent value for money in your services, particularly when considering the costs associated with not only buying a boat, but also the potential costs of buying a boat that may have issues with it.
I will be recommending your services to all of my friends looking to buy boats, and will certainly be using you again for any other boat I buy in the future.
Please donβt ever to hesitate send any one to me for a recommendation for your services, as they would be crazy not to utilise your skill set and knowledge.
Thanks so much!
Jason Hurworth
Pre-purchase Survey
Having used Rod at RTM twice in the last 12 months regarding two separate vessels.
First, was to compose an Operations Manual for the 88ft Monte Fino βMV SAHANAβ, the second occasion was for a Pre-Purchase Survey of the 100ft Sunseeker βMY COLETTEβ.
He has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the engineering and systems involved in running these larger vessels. Rods back up and availability for further questions and assistance in running these vessels has been most valuable to me.
I thoroughly recommended Rod for his professionalism and knowledge in the marine industry.
First, was to compose an Operations Manual for the 88ft Monte Fino βMV SAHANAβ, the second occasion was for a Pre-Purchase Survey of the 100ft Sunseeker βMY COLETTEβ.
He has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the engineering and systems involved in running these larger vessels. Rods back up and availability for further questions and assistance in running these vessels has been most valuable to me.
I thoroughly recommended Rod for his professionalism and knowledge in the marine industry.
Dave Savery
Operations Manual & Pre-purchase Survey
Rod recently acted for me as both surveyor and superintendent in relation to engineering works on my yacht.
His level of commitment, knowledge and professionalism is outstanding. You are in safe hands with Rod.
I would thoroughly recommend Rod Twitchin to anyone needing marine construction or engineering works.
His level of commitment, knowledge and professionalism is outstanding. You are in safe hands with Rod.
I would thoroughly recommend Rod Twitchin to anyone needing marine construction or engineering works.
Greg Richards
Pre-purchase Survey & Project Management
Hi Rod, again β canβt rate you highly enough. This will have to suffice.
As a first-time launch buyer, being based in New Zealand and with only one day available to both sea trial and survey the boat prior to settlement, I was nervous and apprehensive around ensuring that I was purchasing a quality boat that was both mechanically and structurally sound.
Fortunately, Rod was recommended to me as being the most thorough and comprehensive Surveyor in Brisbane/Gold Coast area and upon my arrival at the boat Rod had already arrived early and was inspecting the engines where he identified a number of issues that would not have been apparent to me.
Upon haul out, he identified areas of Osmosis on the hull, issues with the rudders & exhausts. With a shipping deadline coming up, Rod took charge of co-ordinating repairs and liaising with the broker to ensure they were carried out at the owners expense prior to final settlement.
Throughout this he sent me almost daily updates and photographs of how the work was progressing and conducted inspections to ensure all repairs were conducted in accordance with best practice and his own exacting standards.
This gave me both peace of mind and also resulted in me literally saving thousands in future repair bills that I would otherwise have been footing.
I cannot recommend Rod highly enough, for both his high level of knowledge and experience, the comprehensive contacts throughout the marine industry he has, and also his customer service which was superb throughout.
As a first-time launch buyer, being based in New Zealand and with only one day available to both sea trial and survey the boat prior to settlement, I was nervous and apprehensive around ensuring that I was purchasing a quality boat that was both mechanically and structurally sound.
Fortunately, Rod was recommended to me as being the most thorough and comprehensive Surveyor in Brisbane/Gold Coast area and upon my arrival at the boat Rod had already arrived early and was inspecting the engines where he identified a number of issues that would not have been apparent to me.
Upon haul out, he identified areas of Osmosis on the hull, issues with the rudders & exhausts. With a shipping deadline coming up, Rod took charge of co-ordinating repairs and liaising with the broker to ensure they were carried out at the owners expense prior to final settlement.
Throughout this he sent me almost daily updates and photographs of how the work was progressing and conducted inspections to ensure all repairs were conducted in accordance with best practice and his own exacting standards.
This gave me both peace of mind and also resulted in me literally saving thousands in future repair bills that I would otherwise have been footing.
I cannot recommend Rod highly enough, for both his high level of knowledge and experience, the comprehensive contacts throughout the marine industry he has, and also his customer service which was superb throughout.
Nick Herd
Pre-purchase Survey
What a GEM! Our meeting with Rod occurred when we purchased our motor cruiser early 2014.
During the months that followed, we required some assistance, and Rod was the man.
Rodβs professional knowledge aptitude and integrity relating to maintenance was excellent and a credit to his profession. Rodβs care to detail was evident always maintaining a high standard of workmanship.
Whether it is for maintenance, skippering or needing some mentoring in handling ones vessel Rod is highly recommended.
Overall Rod is a genuine nice guy and great to deal with.
During the months that followed, we required some assistance, and Rod was the man.
Rodβs professional knowledge aptitude and integrity relating to maintenance was excellent and a credit to his profession. Rodβs care to detail was evident always maintaining a high standard of workmanship.
Whether it is for maintenance, skippering or needing some mentoring in handling ones vessel Rod is highly recommended.
Overall Rod is a genuine nice guy and great to deal with.
Bill & Maggie
Professional Marine Services
I own the small ship INVESTIGATOR on the Gold Coast, like most boat owners I want the best maintained vessel I can have so that iβm safe and well prepared when iβm underway.
Rod who owns RTM is my chosen go to guy for delivering a complete package of maintenance for INVESTIGATOR.
His industry knowledge is second to none, his ability to bring the relevant tradespeople to perform their task from welding to upholstery and everything in between has proven a very satisfactory solution for me both on costs and timing.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Rod.
Rod who owns RTM is my chosen go to guy for delivering a complete package of maintenance for INVESTIGATOR.
His industry knowledge is second to none, his ability to bring the relevant tradespeople to perform their task from welding to upholstery and everything in between has proven a very satisfactory solution for me both on costs and timing.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Rod.
jim downs
Professional Marine Services
Very Helpful! My first encounter with Rod Twitchin Marine (Rowdy) was when purchasing Next Adventure as Rod was the captain at this time.
Rod then assisted me by conducting the Insurance Condition and Valuation Survey where a solid working relationship was forged.
Rod then assisted with engineering, consulting and project management type works preparing the vessel for her ocean crossing into the South Pacific which was trouble free.
I find Rod to be helpful, reliable and trustworthy with sound knowledge within the marine industry.
I have no hesitation in recommending RTM and will be relying on Rodβs diverse services when returning to Australia.
Rod then assisted me by conducting the Insurance Condition and Valuation Survey where a solid working relationship was forged.
Rod then assisted with engineering, consulting and project management type works preparing the vessel for her ocean crossing into the South Pacific which was trouble free.
I find Rod to be helpful, reliable and trustworthy with sound knowledge within the marine industry.
I have no hesitation in recommending RTM and will be relying on Rodβs diverse services when returning to Australia.
John Fairweather
Insurance Condition Survey & Vessel Valuation
In early 2021 I spoke to several companies regarding what they could offer for a Pre-Purchase Survey.
RTM stood out as the most professional in their survey detail, what was included or could be covered, and the prompt communication.
The 3 team members that attended the sea trial and survey were excellent in their knowledge, interaction with the Seller, Broker and Buyer as well as the detail that was covered.
Due to the professional quality received, I engaged RTM to undertake the refit, upgrades, repair and owner request post-purchase. All work from Shipwright, Fiberglass, Mechanical, Plumbing, Rigging, and Sourcing to review and recommendations have been of equal standard to any of the best I have received from the 16 shipyards I have visited around the world on Superyachts.
The open communication with all work, plus a jovial attitude and respect shown to the crew and vessel while working, is first-rate and highly commendable to the staff and management of RTM. It has become unusual to find such honesty from contractors in the Superyacht world.
I would highly recommend RTM based on my experience and would be happy to provide a reference or answer any questions.
RTM stood out as the most professional in their survey detail, what was included or could be covered, and the prompt communication.
The 3 team members that attended the sea trial and survey were excellent in their knowledge, interaction with the Seller, Broker and Buyer as well as the detail that was covered.
Due to the professional quality received, I engaged RTM to undertake the refit, upgrades, repair and owner request post-purchase. All work from Shipwright, Fiberglass, Mechanical, Plumbing, Rigging, and Sourcing to review and recommendations have been of equal standard to any of the best I have received from the 16 shipyards I have visited around the world on Superyachts.
The open communication with all work, plus a jovial attitude and respect shown to the crew and vessel while working, is first-rate and highly commendable to the staff and management of RTM. It has become unusual to find such honesty from contractors in the Superyacht world.
I would highly recommend RTM based on my experience and would be happy to provide a reference or answer any questions.
Captain Todd
Pre-purchase Survey & Consultancy
We used RT Marine for a pre purchase inspection and cannot speak highly enough of their service.
It was immediately following the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show and Rod was incredibly busy but he went the extra mile and got the inspection report back very promptly. We were lucky to have been able to be there to get first hand feedback at the time and were able to complete our purchase in 3 days.
Rod really knows his stuff and is very professional. We highly recommend RT Marine and would go back again should we ever need their services. Thanks guys!
It was immediately following the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show and Rod was incredibly busy but he went the extra mile and got the inspection report back very promptly. We were lucky to have been able to be there to get first hand feedback at the time and were able to complete our purchase in 3 days.
Rod really knows his stuff and is very professional. We highly recommend RT Marine and would go back again should we ever need their services. Thanks guys!
Anne Marie Mccabe
Pre-purchase Survey
Thank you very much Rod for your professional input on my 30 foot Hartley cruiser I had just bought, and for your knowledge and advice I took onboard to fix the things that you suggested.
When you saw it the second time you said it was a different boat and the credit you gave me when you did the survey I really appreciated it.
So thank you again and I would definitely support RTM anytime and would recommend your company to any one who is buying a boat.
When you saw it the second time you said it was a different boat and the credit you gave me when you did the survey I really appreciated it.
So thank you again and I would definitely support RTM anytime and would recommend your company to any one who is buying a boat.
Ricky Burdon
General Condition Survey
I would highly recommend Rod Twitchin Marine if you looking for a pre-inspection before you purchase a boat.
I found Rod extremely easy to work with, he carried out a very detailed inspection of the boat and explained the report so we had a complete picture of what we were buying.
Being new to this style of boating we found Rod took the time to answer any of our questions on the day and gave us ongoing support over the next few weeks even after the deal was done.
Should we ever purchase another boat there is no question that Rod will be the person we will turn to when it comes to the pre-inspection.
I found Rod extremely easy to work with, he carried out a very detailed inspection of the boat and explained the report so we had a complete picture of what we were buying.
Being new to this style of boating we found Rod took the time to answer any of our questions on the day and gave us ongoing support over the next few weeks even after the deal was done.
Should we ever purchase another boat there is no question that Rod will be the person we will turn to when it comes to the pre-inspection.
Troy Campbell
Pre-purchase Survey
In January 2015 we employed Rod Twitchin Marine to conduct a Pre-Purchase Survey and Insurance Condition Report on the 41.0m Sovereign Yachts, Superyacht βMOON SANDβ.
This report was compiled from a two day alongside investigation of all in-water machinery and operational safety and system checks, followed by a 12-hour sea trail from Thailand to Malaysia, which proved to be an important part of the pre-purchase process in the final negotiation. It was finished off with an out-of-water vessel survey.
Rod conducted himself in a very professional manner throughout the entire process and was very thorough in his investigation of the super yacht.
Through Rods hard work and enthusiasm to provide an in-depth pre-purchase report, our owner could re-negotiate a final sale price and save a considerable amount, so without RTMβs efforts, this would not have been achieved.
As the master in charge of this vessel, I can take over command now, knowing the sea-worthy condition of the vessel and that safety management systems are at a level that the crew can operate safely.
I have no hesitation in recommending Rod Twitchin Marine, no job is too big or too hard for Rod to handle, and I know I can get on the phone, and he is only too happy to help with any marine matter in the cheerful RTM way.
This report was compiled from a two day alongside investigation of all in-water machinery and operational safety and system checks, followed by a 12-hour sea trail from Thailand to Malaysia, which proved to be an important part of the pre-purchase process in the final negotiation. It was finished off with an out-of-water vessel survey.
Rod conducted himself in a very professional manner throughout the entire process and was very thorough in his investigation of the super yacht.
Through Rods hard work and enthusiasm to provide an in-depth pre-purchase report, our owner could re-negotiate a final sale price and save a considerable amount, so without RTMβs efforts, this would not have been achieved.
As the master in charge of this vessel, I can take over command now, knowing the sea-worthy condition of the vessel and that safety management systems are at a level that the crew can operate safely.
I have no hesitation in recommending Rod Twitchin Marine, no job is too big or too hard for Rod to handle, and I know I can get on the phone, and he is only too happy to help with any marine matter in the cheerful RTM way.
Mark Clacher
Pre-Purchase Survey and Insurance Condition Report
I approached RTM based on a recommendation from a friend of a friend. They helped me carry out two pre-purchase surveys of motor yachts that I was contemplating purchasing.
By being prepared to go the extra step in conducting the survey of the first vessel I was considering, RTM uncovered two reasonably serious issues that the vessel had been suffering for a period of time.
These issues werenβt easily identifiable and may of possibly had more serious consequences on other parts of the vessel.
RTM's thorough knowing some history of the vessel dismantled these key areas of the vessel that were above and beyond what they would normally do and fortunately for me, uncovered these issues.
As a result of this, we then explored an alternative vessel via RTM once again. This vessel was inter-state and RTM made themselves available at short notice to make the trip. I ultimately purchased this vessel.
RTM were very attentive throughout the whole process. They were engaged, extremely knowledgeable, returned calls (even on the weekend), practical in their approach and totally professional throughout the process.
I would highly recommend the services of RTM to any prospective customers.
By being prepared to go the extra step in conducting the survey of the first vessel I was considering, RTM uncovered two reasonably serious issues that the vessel had been suffering for a period of time.
These issues werenβt easily identifiable and may of possibly had more serious consequences on other parts of the vessel.
RTM's thorough knowing some history of the vessel dismantled these key areas of the vessel that were above and beyond what they would normally do and fortunately for me, uncovered these issues.
As a result of this, we then explored an alternative vessel via RTM once again. This vessel was inter-state and RTM made themselves available at short notice to make the trip. I ultimately purchased this vessel.
RTM were very attentive throughout the whole process. They were engaged, extremely knowledgeable, returned calls (even on the weekend), practical in their approach and totally professional throughout the process.
I would highly recommend the services of RTM to any prospective customers.
Tim Molchanoff
Pre-Purchase Survey
I recently required a survey on my houseboat. After contacting a couple of companies to get quotes, (of which none returned my calls) a friend suggested giving Rod from RTM a call.
I was quite stressed as to what I needed to do, Iβm a newbie to the boating world, but after speaking to Rod all my worries were put to rest.
Rodβs professional attitude, friendly service and willingness to answer my questions, (even the silly ones) really impressed me.
But what impressed me most about Rod was his knowledge. This man knows his stuff. I canβt thank Rod enough for his help, and if you choose RTM for your marine survey youβll be as impressed as I was.
Thanks again Rod!
I was quite stressed as to what I needed to do, Iβm a newbie to the boating world, but after speaking to Rod all my worries were put to rest.
Rodβs professional attitude, friendly service and willingness to answer my questions, (even the silly ones) really impressed me.
But what impressed me most about Rod was his knowledge. This man knows his stuff. I canβt thank Rod enough for his help, and if you choose RTM for your marine survey youβll be as impressed as I was.
Thanks again Rod!
Mark Mckenzie
Pre-purchase Survey
I have used the services of Rod Twitchin Marine twice this year for the survey of two different vessels I considered purchasing for live aboard.
I can highly recommend Rod to be a competent surveyor acting with a clear definition for my best interests.
I myself am a fully qualified Master and Engineer and have a reasonable knowledge of vessels. On one occasion I was unable to attend the survey but had full faith in Rod to do the survey work for me.
I live in NSW and was recommended Rod from two independent highly qualified Masters that I know in Queensland.
Rod has conducted himself in a highly professional manner at all times with myself and with brokers. There is nothing that has been an issue for him. He has taken charge of all the survey work and even been able to arrange quotes on my behalf for work that needed to be carried out.
Rodβs reports are all-inclusive, clear and comprehensive. He has always been available for discussion with me on the phone even whilst doing the survey work when I was not present. He has a keen eye for detail.
I have no hesitation in using Rod TwitchinMarine (RTM) again as my surveyor and for any future advice with my vessel or any other vessel I work on and would highly recommend RTM any time for anybody.
I can highly recommend Rod to be a competent surveyor acting with a clear definition for my best interests.
I myself am a fully qualified Master and Engineer and have a reasonable knowledge of vessels. On one occasion I was unable to attend the survey but had full faith in Rod to do the survey work for me.
I live in NSW and was recommended Rod from two independent highly qualified Masters that I know in Queensland.
Rod has conducted himself in a highly professional manner at all times with myself and with brokers. There is nothing that has been an issue for him. He has taken charge of all the survey work and even been able to arrange quotes on my behalf for work that needed to be carried out.
Rodβs reports are all-inclusive, clear and comprehensive. He has always been available for discussion with me on the phone even whilst doing the survey work when I was not present. He has a keen eye for detail.
I have no hesitation in using Rod TwitchinMarine (RTM) again as my surveyor and for any future advice with my vessel or any other vessel I work on and would highly recommend RTM any time for anybody.
Deke Zimmerman
2 x Pre-purchase Surveys
Rod (Rowdy) displays many great qualities. We have a 60ft Symbol motor cruiser.
In 2011 we had stabilisers fitted and were fortunate enough to meet Rod Twitchin (Rowdy).
From our first encounter we found Rowdy to be extremely accommodating and initially he skippered βWhisperβ for us on day trips in the Broadwater.
We very quickly formed a friendship and Rowdy then did routine maintenance on our vessel, including servicing our caterpillar engines. At that stage we invited Rowdy to join us in the Whitsundays as skipper for a week.
Rowdy displays many great qualities including fastidiousness with his work always making sure that all work is done to the highest of standards.
I can recommend Rod Twitchin Marine with the utmost confidence whether it be maintenance work on your boat or skippering your vessel locally or up and down the coast of Australia!
In 2011 we had stabilisers fitted and were fortunate enough to meet Rod Twitchin (Rowdy).
From our first encounter we found Rowdy to be extremely accommodating and initially he skippered βWhisperβ for us on day trips in the Broadwater.
We very quickly formed a friendship and Rowdy then did routine maintenance on our vessel, including servicing our caterpillar engines. At that stage we invited Rowdy to join us in the Whitsundays as skipper for a week.
Rowdy displays many great qualities including fastidiousness with his work always making sure that all work is done to the highest of standards.
I can recommend Rod Twitchin Marine with the utmost confidence whether it be maintenance work on your boat or skippering your vessel locally or up and down the coast of Australia!
Susie Ferguson
Professional Marine Services
For more information on any of our Marine Surveys or Professional Marine Services, please contact us.