Meet Our Team
Zac Howells
Director & Principal Marine Surveyor
At the helm of Howells Maritime Services, Zac is a leader in the Australian maritime industry with over 25 years of proven expertise in commercial shipbuilding, vessel repair and marine surveying. A Master Shipwright/Boatbuilder and AMSA-accredited surveyor, he also holds Advanced and International Diplomas of Commercial Marine Surveying and is an ISM/ISPS auditor and flag state surveyor for IMMARBE (Belize).
In Australia, Zac has led some of the most demanding and high-profile maritime works, including the construction and commissioning of advanced high-speed vessels, complex refits and conversions, stability testing, and compliance surveys for a wide range of domestic commercial vessels. He works extensively with vessel owners, shipyards, and government authorities to ensure projects meet the highest safety and compliance standards.
On the global stage, Zac has supervised major newbuild programs and complex conversions in leading shipyards across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. His experience includes overseeing the construction of high-speed aluminium catamarans, large-scale passenger vessels and specialised craft for both domestic and foreign flag states. He has also conducted pre-purchase, insurance and statutory surveys in Asia, the Pacific and other international ports.
In recognition of his technical expertise and leadership, Zac was the inaugural recipient of the Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors Award for Excellence in 2015. Known for his hands-on approach and uncompromising standards, he continues to deliver projects that earn the trust of clients and maritime authorities both in Australia and worldwide.
Maike Fritz Ligan
Marine Surveyor
Maike Fritz Ligan is an AMSA-accredited Marine Surveyor with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering and over a decade of diverse maritime experience spanning sea service, technical instruction, and vessel compliance.
She began her career as a scholarship-awarded engine cadet in the Norwegian fleet, rising through engineering ranks on tankers and bulk carriers before moving ashore to teach students, train seafarers, develop planned maintenance systems for international vessels, and support vessel owners in achieving the highest standards of safety and operational compliance.
Today, Maike applies her expertise at Howells Maritime Services in Cairns, Queensland, performing a full spectrum of surveys; from AMSA compliance checks, bunker quantity verification, and cargo hold cleanliness certification. Her work covers Australian commercial vessels, yachts, bulk carriers, and other specialised craft. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, strong knowledge of NSCV, AMSA, MARPOL, and SOLAS, and clear, practical reporting style, she supports vessel owners, operators, and insurers in maintaining safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.
Driven by a passion for safety and quality in maritime operations, Maike continues to build her professional credentials, including earning the Australasian Institute of Marine Surveyors’ Student of the Year Award. Her career is grounded in resilience, integrity, and a commitment to delivering value to clients—qualities that have made her a trusted partner for operators navigating both regulatory frameworks and operational demands.
Julie Skarstrom
Secretary
Growing up in a family deeply connected to the marine industry, Julie has long been at home in the world of boats and the dedicated people who keep them seaworthy. She holds a Certificate in Business Studies and brings an impressive 35-year career in the banking and finance sector, where precision, organisation, and exceptional client service were the hallmarks of her work.
Julie works alongside her husband Zac in steering the operations of Howells Maritime Services. She is the welcoming voice that greets clients, the organiser who coordinates bookings with ease, and the meticulous hand ensuring every detail is in order. From managing payroll and preparing invoices to keeping daily operations running seamlessly, Julie’s dedication, professionalism, and personal touch serve as a steady anchor for the survey team and a trusted point of contact for clients. Her commitment to efficiency and service helps keep the business on course and its reputation strong within the maritime industry.