Pre Purchase Survey

A pre-purchase survey is our most detailed and in-depth examination. A sea trial is performed as is a haul out for a bottom inspection. A written report is issued complete with a list of equipment seen A pre-purchase marine survey is usually performed prior to purchasing a yacht and/or an owner is looking to sell their yacht and is a particularly good investment considering the: buyer beware” nature of boat sales. Used boats normally do not come with a warranty so spending a fraction of the purchase price on a pre purchase survey inspection is money well spent.

The pre-purchase marine survey is a comprehensive inspection of your vessel. it is conducted primarily to ensure the safety of you and your family and crew by examining the vessel to ABYC standards, and to USCG regulations. To protect yourself, all contracts for the purchase of a new or used vessel should be subject to a satisfactory pre-purchase survey conducted by a surveyor of your choice ideally located near you.

A pre-purchase survey is our most detailed and in-depth examination and is normally divided into three sections, #1 the vessel hauled out  on the hard so that a thorough inspection of the bottom can be performed. #2 Floating at the dock and #3 Sea Trial.

Haul Out:

·         Hull and deck laminates – cracks, dents, abrasion inspection

·         Acoustic sounding to determine structural integrity

·         Keel

·         Possible blistering or osmosis

·         Paint condition and antifouling coverage

·         Running gear – shafts, props, and rudders

·         Bow thruster

·         Zinc anodes

·         Through hull penetrations

·         Sea cocks – exercise valves

Floating at the dock:

·         Interior visual inspection

·         Internal frames/bulkheads/stringers and supporting structures

·         Deck fittings, lifelines, stanchions, lifelines mooring cleats

·         Anchor, windlass, and anchor rode

·         Rudder quadrant and steering system

·         Accommodation spaces

·         Galley equipment

·         Safety equipment

·         Fire equipment

·         Navigation equipment

·         Electrical systems

·         Electronic equipment

·         Sanitation equipment including holding tanks. Conformity to USCG regulations

·         LPG and/or CNG systems

·         Furnishings

·         Coverings

·         Cockpit enclosures

·         Canvas

Sea Trial with the vessel underway, machinery and all systems operating. Sailing vessels, sails raised/rolled out with tacks and gybes performed. Sea trials require the owner or owner’s representative/captain to operate the vessel. Propulsion equipment is operated under normal load and all systems tested under actual sea conditions.

·         30 to 40 minutes at normal cruising speed

·         Engine instrumentation and control checks

·         Engine block and exhaust temperature measurements

·         Alternator output tested

·         Engine exhaust system inspected

·         Full power rpm noted

·         Cruising and full power speed logged

·         Hard over to hard over steering test

·         Emergency stop

·         Steering astern

·         Auto pilot tested

·         Stabilisers tested

·         Anchor lowered and raised

 A written report is issued complete with a list of equipment seen onboard along with a detailed list of deficiencies and recommendations. Evidence of previous maintenance will be noted, or the lack of it. Replacement and current market values are assessed using comparable yacht sales in the current market. Many lenders and insurance companies require a pre-purchase boat survey prior to binding a contract.  

This survey can also assist a seller in evaluating what repairs and/or upgrades should be completed for the yacht to be placed on the market at a competitive price.
onboard along with a detailed list of deficiencies and recommendations. Replacement and current market values are assessed using comparable yacht sales in the current market. Many lenders and insurance companies require a pre-purchase survey prior to binding a contract.

The pre purchase boat survey will reflect the appearance and functionality of the vessel, including an acoustic underwater hull test, running gear inspection, hull structural integrity, hull cosmetic inspection, safety equipment requirements, electronic and navigation equipment, engineering equipment, domestic appliances, lighting, cooling/heat, onboard support systems. Evidence of previous maintenance will be noted, or the lack of it. Upon completion of the report, an overall condition will be expressed, and the Fair Market Value will be provide

This survey can also assist a seller in evaluating what repairs and or upgrades should be completed for the yacht or Boat to be placed on the market at a competitive price.