The Survey

Buying a boat is a big deal for many people, and for some people a very emotional thing. It can therefore be useful for the buyer to get a surveyor’s completely objective technical assessment of the boat before the final decision is made.

The Survey can be performed at various levels depending on the type of boat, the desired scope of the survey or the circumstances under which the boat is located.

However, it is important for the survey in general that it includes, if possible, all the parts of a boat that have to do with seaworthiness, strength, and safety.

For sailboats, this will typically be keel bolts, floors, attachment of bulkheads, and seacocks. For motorboats, engine foundations must also be checked.

In any case, a purchase should not be completed until the boat has been inspected by a surveyor both inside and outside, and the buyer has had the opportunity to make a test voyage.

If the purchase takes place during the winter, when it is not possible to test sail the boat, a satisfactory sea trial should be introduced as a condition in the purchase contract.