Frequently Asked Questions

A marine survey is a detailed inspection of a boat’s structure, systems and overall condition. It provides an independent, professional assessment to help buyers, owners and insurers understand the vessel’s safety, condition and value.

Depending on your requirements the survey will be tailored for you and your boat. Generally, those looking for a survey will want a pre-purchase survey that is the most comprehensive survey, an insurance survey that focuses on the condition on the hull and watertight intergrity, valuation or damage surveys.

A pre-purchase boat survey is a detailed inspection of a boat carried out by a qualified marine surveyor before you buy it. Its purpose is simple: to tell you exactly what you’re buying — condition, safety, value, and any problems that could cost you later.

What It Covers 

While the exact scope depends on the vessel, a typical pre-purchase survey includes:

Hull & Structure

• Hull condition (steel thickness if applicable)
• Signs of corrosion, osmosis, impact damage
• Decks, cabin top, bulkheads
• Evidence of previous repair

 Machinery & Systems

• Engine installation and visible condition
• Fuel system
• Electrical systems (12v / 240v)
• Gas system
• Steering gear
• Stern gear (prop, shaft, rudder)

Safety & Compliance

• Fire safety provisions
• Ventilation
• Gas locker setup
• Compliance observations 

Interior & Fit-Out

• Damp checks
• Structural integrity of floors/bulkheads
• Signs of movement or distortion

Out of the Water vs In the Water

A proper pre-purchase survey normally requires the boat to be out of the water so the hull can be inspected properly. this often includes:

• Percussion testing
• Ultrasonic thickness testing
• Checking paint coating condition

What You Get

You’ll receive a written report that:

• Lists defects
• Categorises issues (urgent / advisory)
• Gives repair recommendations
• Can includes a valuation and reinstatement value (for insurance)

Why It’s Important

• Helps you renegotiate price
• Prevents expensive surprises
• Satisfies insurers
• Gives peace of mind

It is strongly advised to get a survey when purchasing a boat, to fully understand the condition of the vessel before you part with your money. 

A pre-purchase survey can highlight structural issues, corrosion, safety concerns or expensive repairs before you commit. It often saves buyers far more than it costs.

Typical surveys include:

• Pre-Purchase Survey – Comprehensive condition report for buyers
• Hull & Condition Survey – Structural focus, often for insurance or maintenance planning
• Insurance Survey – To satisfy insurer requirements
• Valuation Survey – Market value assessment

Most full pre-purchase surveys  take a full day (or more if required), depending on size and condition. The written report is usually issued within 24-48 hours after inspection.

While in-water surveys can be conducted, this limits the information available, an out-of-water survey allows for a full examination of the hull. The vessel must be lifted or slipped so the hull can be inspected, thickness-tested (if steel), and examined properly below the waterline.

Costs vary depending on vessel size, type and scope of inspection. Prices are typically based on length (per foot). Contact us for an accurate quote.

Simply get in touch with:

• Boat details (type, length, builder, year if known)
• Location of the vessel
• Type of survey required
• Preferred dates

We’ll guide you through the next steps and coordinate with the boatyard if needed.