1. What is a marine survey?

A marine survey (typically called a Pre-purchase Survey) is an independent appraisal of the suitability, condition and evaluation of a yacht or commercial craft, by a knowledgeable professional on behalf of a principal and without prejudice to that principal. The survey can help the buyer make an objective, knowledgeable decision about the purchase of a vessel. The report can be tendered to insurance and financial institutions in support of insurance and financing. The survey can also be grounds for you to withdraw your offer to purchase, without penalty, if you have so stated in your offer to purchase.

2. How long is a survey report valid?

All surveys are "as is, where is" and "subject to access". Unless conditions change materially (and they sometimes do change), a survey usually is valid for about 90 days after the survey date.

3. How long does a survey take?

We can usually perform the survey within 48 hours of your order, depending upon the time of year and operational tempo. It can take 2 to 10 hours to perform, depending upon the size and condition of the yacht, and another 2 to 5 hours in the office to prepare the report. Commercial vessels and large yachts usually take much longer due to their complexity. Completed survey reports are usually ready within 48 hours after the survey has been completed.

4. Who owns the survey report?

The survey report belongs to the person who orders the report. We report to that person and distribute report copies only to that person or as directed by that person. That person must also pay for the survey or arrange for payment through a broker's trust account. The Surveyor may copywrite his report to protect his interests where others may try to utilize that report for their own (and inappropriate) use.

5. What is an insurance survey?

On interval, insurance companies will require the boat owner to survey the boat to establish the condition of the vessel and its values (typically called a C & V survey). The insurance company is primarily interested in any material changes to the vessel, since the policy initiation, that may affect insured value or risk. The insured usually orders and pays for this report. The insured, therefore, must forward a copy of the report to the insurance company, as required.

6. What does a survey cost?

All yachts and commercial craft are different and are located in various locales. Yachts and commercial vessel surveys are quoted upon request. The cost of the survey is very little compared to the cost of the vessel and to the value of the independent view of the vessel by an experienced professional.