Frequently Asked Questions About Yacht Surveys
What is required before a yacht survey?
During a yacht survey, all equipment and areas of the vessel must be inspected in detail. Therefore, before the survey, storage lockers, bilges, engine compartments, cabins, electrical panels, and anchor lockers should be accessible. It is highly recommended to keep the yacht’s interior as empty as possible. Otherwise, constant movement of personal items will prolong the inspection and may reduce the overall quality of the survey.
A sea trial is mandatory as part of a full yacht survey. For accurate engine performance evaluation, the hull (below the waterline) must be clean. A fouled hull can cause false readings—such as excessive exhaust smoke, vibration, overheating, or reduced speed—making it impossible to assess engine condition correctly. Before the survey, the hull can either be cleaned by a diver or during a short haul-out.
How long does a yacht survey take?
A pre-purchase yacht survey typically takes 5 to 10 hours, depending on the vessel’s size and type. The seller or broker should be informed of this estimated duration in advance to plan accordingly.
Is it necessary to haul out the yacht?
Yes. We recommend hauling out every vessel, even newly delivered yachts, to inspect for possible previous damage, osmosis, or manufacturing defects. During the hull inspection, we use thermal imaging cameras, Shore D hardness meters, percussion hammers, and moisture meters to detect delamination, repairs, or structural issues that may not be visible under paint or antifouling coatings.
Can we inspect the hull with a diver instead?
No. Diver inspections or video recordings can only show the hull’s current condition. They cannot detect hidden or historical structural repairs, delamination, or manufacturing faults. While the decision to haul out remains with the buyer, we always provide professional recommendations beforehand.
When can moisture testing be done on fiberglass hulls?
We perform ultrasonic moisture measurements on both underwater and topside areas when the vessel is ashore. For accurate results, the hull should be dry, but there is no fixed waiting period. Contrary to popular belief, waiting three days is not always required. What matters most is comparing moisture levels between areas and interpreting anomalies.
Depending on the vessel’s age, antifouling thickness, and time spent in the water, drying times may vary. Some yachts can be tested after 30 minutes ashore, while others may retain high moisture readings even after months out of water.
How long does the sea trial take?
Depending on the yacht type, the sea trial usually lasts 1 to 2 hours under suitable weather conditions. Excessive wind (over 20 knots) or high waves can cause inaccurate readings for vibration and speed performance.
Can the land and sea surveys be done separately?
Yes. The hull and machinery inspection can be done first, followed by the sea trial on another day. However, in most cases, we complete both inspections on the same day.
Do I have to wait for the final report?
At the end of each survey, we immediately provide a preliminary written report that includes the checklist, findings, equipment list, serial numbers, and comments. This allows the client to make a purchase decision and calculate possible repair costs right away. The final detailed survey report is usually delivered within 3–7 days, with expedited service available upon request.
Do you perform follow-up inspections?
Yes, upon request. However, our standard quotations cover a single, full-condition inspection. Any additional visits or follow-up checks are quoted separately.
Can the survey damage the yacht?
No. All inspection procedures are non-invasive. Surveyors do not wear shoes inside the yacht, and panels are only removed with the owner’s or broker’s permission. The tools used (moisture meters, cameras, etc.) do not damage or alter any systems. Only minimal paint removal might be required for specific antifouling tests.
Are photos and videos taken during the survey?
Yes. Each yacht survey includes 300 to 600 photographs, which document the yacht’s condition and support the findings in the final report.
How are disputes handled during a survey?
Our surveyors never make negative comments or enter into disputes with the seller during the survey. The purpose is to objectively assess the vessel’s seaworthiness, identify potential risks, and report them professionally.
Are your survey reports internationally recognized?
Yes. Our reports are internationally valid, and we are members of ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council).