A survey and sea trial are essential steps when buying a boat, and they help ensure you’re making an informed purchase. Here’s a breakdown of what they involve and what to expect:
Survey
A survey is a detailed inspection of the boat by a professional marine surveyor. Think of it as a home inspection but for a boat.
What to Expect:
- Pre-Purchase Survey:
- The surveyor will examine the boat both in and out of the water (if possible).
- Key areas include:
- Hull and deck condition (checking for cracks, blisters, delamination, etc.).
- Structural integrity (keel, bulkheads, rigging for sailboats, etc.).
- Systems and equipment (engine, electrical, plumbing, navigation, etc.).
- Safety equipment (life jackets, fire extinguishers, etc.).
- The surveyor may use tools like moisture meters or thermal cameras to check for hidden damage.
- Haul-Out (if applicable):
- The boat is taken out of the water to inspect the hull below the waterline, including the propeller, rudder, and through-hulls.
- Survey Report:
- After the inspection, you’ll get a written report detailing the boat’s condition, any issues found, and an estimated market value.
Cost:
- Survey Fees: $20–$30 per foot of the boat’s length (e.g., $1,000–$1,500 for a 50-foot boat).
- Haul-Out Fee: $15–$25 per foot, depending on location and boatyard ($750–$1,250 for a 50-foot boat).
Sea Trial
A sea trial is like a test drive for a car but conducted on the water. It helps you understand how the boat performs under power or sail.
What to Expect:
- Planning the Trial:
- Your broker will coordinate with the maria
- The buyer and surveyor will typically arrange the trial and communicate with broker, so all parties are aligned.
- The Listing Broker will ensure the boat is fueled, and all systems are ready to be tested.
- What Happens on the Water:
- The engine is tested at various speeds (idle, cruising, and maximum RPMs).
- For sailboats, the sails and rigging will be assessed under load.
- Handling is evaluated, including how the boat turns, accelerates, and stops.
- Systems like autopilot, navigation electronics, and winches (on sailboats) will be tested.
- The surveyor will check for vibrations, unusual sounds, smoke, or other performance issues.
- Post-Trial Feedback:
- Afterward, you and the surveyor discuss the trial, any concerns, and next steps.
Cost:
- Sea Trial Costs: Often included in the surveyor’s fee but may vary. Additional costs could include fuel and staffing (if the seller doesn’t captain the boat).
- Fuel: $50–$300, depending on engine size and duration.
Tips for Buyers
- Hire an Independent Surveyor: The buyer can look up in various directories.
- Be Present: Attend the survey and sea trial to ask questions and observe.
- Budget for Repairs: Be prepared for the survey to uncover issues that may need negotiation or repair.
Benchmark Costs (For Example)
For a 40-foot sailboat:
- Survey: $800–$1,200
- Haul-Out: $600–$1,000
- Sea Trial: $100–$300 (for fuel/staff)
Total: Around $1,500–$2,500.
These steps are an investment in avoiding surprises after the purchase. If you would like to include a survey and sea trial as contingencies in the purchase and sale agreement, please tell your yacht broker. If you decide not to do a survey, we will have you sign a Waiver of Survey and Sea Trial and upon signing, you can go straight to closing with the guidance of our expert closing team.
