Abstract: There is disclosed an inspection device which can be disassembled into a compact configuration permitting it to be moved into and out of the cargo and ballast tanks of an ocean going vessel through the conventional hatches. The invention comprises a carriage support column which is formed by several cables which are stretched vertically between support plates which are temporarily installed on the bottom of the tank or cargo hold and beneath the vessel's decking. A carriage is mounted on the support column for vertical movement thereon, and the carriage preferably carries a remotely controlled drive motor which can rotate the carriage, preferably in a full 360.degree. arc. A remotely controlled television camera and the necessary lights are mounted on the carriage and can be panned around the column to observe and record the visual appearance of the interior structural members.