Procedure for a yacht survey
The path to a safe purchase decision
From the on-site inspection to the report: Here you can find out how an inspection typically works, which areas are inspected and how you can best prepare yourself.
Below you will find a brief overview of the classic procedure for a boat or yacht survey in Croatia, Slovenia or Italy.
A checklist for optimal preparation also ensures that everything runs smoothly on the day of the assessment.
The process of a Yacht survey
Phase 1:
The inspection on land
The inspection of the hull usually marks the start of the survey and, in addition to checking the underwater vessel, also includes an inspection of all on-board passages as well as the steering and propulsion system.
If a moisture measurement is also to be carried out, it is advisable to store the boat in dry dock for at least 5 days beforehand in order to ensure usable measurement results.
Phase 2
Deck and superstructure
The next step is to inspect the deck and superstructure, as well as all the hardware in these areas – from the anchorage and navigation lighting to the railing. At this stage, particular attention is also paid to the hull-deck connection, as this plays a particularly critical role in the structural load-bearing capacity of a boat.
Phase 3
Machines and on-board systems
Then it’s on to the heart of every boat: the engine system including the associated peripherals.
In addition, all structural components such as stringers, sheets and cradles are also checked during this phase.
Phase 4
Interior and comfort systems
The next step is to inspect the entire interior and all comfort and cockpit systems.
If desired, a thermographic inspection of the electrical equipment (switch box, etc…) can also be carried out during this phase.
Phase 5
Sea Trial
If the boat is guaranteed to be seaworthy up to this point, the sea trial follows. A detailed schedule of various maneuvers (such as the “back-down” test and “wide open throttle test”) is defined with the skipper to ensure that all critical systems are loaded accordingly to check that they are functioning properly.
Of course, the schedule may deviate slightly from this sequence from case to case. As a rule, however, this procedure has proven to be very successful, especially as it allows any deficiencies and suspicious facts to be identified in advance and special attention to be paid to them during the stresses and strains of the sea trial.
Checklist for optimal preparation
In order to ensure a smooth process for all parties involved, you will find below a list of all organizational matters that need to be clarified in the run-up to the viewing. We will of course be happy to support you through all these steps.
Obtain consent from the owner
Responsibility: Client, broker
Clarify insurance cover
Responsibility: Client, Broker
Organize skipper
Responsibility: Client, broker, owner
Arrange crane or slip appointments
Responsibility: Client, broker, owner
Planning and unplanning
Responsibility: Client, broker, owner
Ensure access and paperwork
Responsibility: client, broker, owner
Result: The survey report
Structured
report
Comprehensive
photo documentation
Recommendations &
Priorities
Frequent Questions
The duration of the inspection depends primarily on the type of boat, size and scope of the inspection. For boats or yachts up to 50 feet, the inspection can usually be carried out within one day. For larger yachts, a second day may be required, depending on the equipment. The exact duration will be stated in the offer.
Visual access is useful for a meaningful assessment of the underwater hull. We recommend a crane in any case.
If agreed, yes. We clarify the scope and requirements in advance so that the results are properly included in the report.