Types of Survey

This is sometimes called a full survey and is conducted before buying a vessel, this provides a complete picture of its condition, helping buyers avoid costly surprises and to be aware of anything that makes the boat unsafe. This is the most comprehensive survey available. The survey usually takes about a day with another day required to write the report.

This often accompanies a pre-purchase survey. The best way to find out if a boat is for you is to sail it or drive it in open water. The sea trial involves testing the engine, transmission, steering, instruments and rigging. It involves bringing the engines up to operating temperature and running for a period under full load. All instrumentation, systems and the installation will be closely examined along with any navigation systems. A series of test on the boat’s equipment  and engine are performed and the buyer is given the chance to get a feel of the boat from the helm. For boats with more expensive engines or if their reliability is in question a marine engineer can attend.

This is an assessment of the current market value of the boat taking into account the current market, similar advertised and sold vessels and  how they compare to yours and current variations between asking and achieved price. A short inspection is carried out before market research and a short report of the vessel’s value.

A general inspection to assess the vessel’s current state, often required by insurers or lenders at 20 years and then every 5 years. This is not a full survey and therefore not a suitable survey to use when buying a boat but is a good survey to get a structural update on a boat you already know well.

Performed after an incident to determine the extent and cause of damage, and to assist with insurance claims.

The World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations (WSOSR) Appendix L states that a structural inspection of the keel and rudder by a qualified person shall be conducted for Category 1, 2 and 3 offshore racing. We can assist with this and complete the necessary paperwork.