About True Heading

The current version of True Heading Marine Surveying & Consulting was founded in 2014. We are proud to offer complete and thorough marine surveying and consulting services available to the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas. We offer surveys for Pre-Purchase Condition and Valuation, Insurance, Financing/Refinancing, Damage Claims, and Marina Safety (required by some marinas prior to leasing a slip).

In addition, we offer consulting and orientation services for the first-time boat owner. We will also attend the sea trial of your prospective vessel as a performance consultant to see if it meets the manufacturer's specifications.

Douglas McDaniel

Doug began his apprenticeship with True Heading in 2012 and took over the day-to-day operations of True Heading in 2014. Upon his retirement as a captain with the Alexandria Fire Department in 2015, Doug became the owner and sole operator of True Heading. To date, Doug has performed more than 1100 marine surveys. He is a member in good standing of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS®) as an Accredited Marine Surveyor®. In addition, he is a member of the International Association of Marine Investigators, Inc. (IAMI), the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), and the National Fire Protection Association.

Doug continually strives to increase his knowledge and certifications by attending several seminars, conferences, and training classes each year.