Yacht & Small Craft Surveying
We prepare customized vessel appraisals detailing condition and value in the purchase/sale of yachts and small craft. We also assist vessel owners and insurance providers in obtaining a vessel’s accurate value and provide a "to-do" list to make the vessel insurable. We conduct a thorough and extensive inspection of not only the hulls of such vessels but also their rigging, machinery, electrical, gas, and accommodation systems.
General surveys include...
pre-purchase surveys for potential buyers;
insurance surveys for conditions and valuation for boat owners to maintain insurance of financing;
damage assessments for insurance providers; and
inspections for remote buyers interested in learning about a vessel prior to committing to long-distance travel to see it.
Pre-Purchase Surveys
Pre-Purchase surveys are normally ordered by a potential buyer that wants to ensure a vessel is sound and ready for service. This is the most detailed of all the surveys as it provides a comprehensive list of vessel information, equipment and evaluation of systems for industry standards and regulations. These surveys normally include out of water hull inspection, sea trial, electrical and mechanical equipment inspection, fuels system evaluation, navigation equipment, cosmetic appearance, overall maintenance and limited propulsion checks.
Key benefits include...
detailed report on the particular vessel
findings to alert you to lacking USCG requirements or problems
recommendations to maintain and enhance the value of your vessel
This is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel as the best way to protect your purchase and ensure your vessel is ready to cast off!
Insurance Surveys
This inspection is performed so that insurance companies know the condition and value of a vessel before writing or updating an insurance policy. It generally focuses on structural integrity and safety of the vessel for its intended use, and the condition of high value items kept on board. Insurance companies often require updated surveys on vessels when purchased and every five years afterwards, depending on the service and age of the vessel.
Key benefits include...
ensures the vessel is financed/insured at the right level
identify any problems or concerns that need to addressed
know the current fair market value of the vessel
This helps determine if the vessel is an "acceptable risk"
Appraisal Inspections
This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations and legal cases.
Key benefits include...
ensures the vessel is financed/insured at the right level
identify any problems or concerns that need to addressed
know current fair market value of the vessel
Virtual Survey or "Walk-Throughs"
A "Walk Through" survey is a popular option for remote buyers that simply want to confirm the vessel is as advertised before committing to the buying process. It can include on virtual tours narrated on video, photos of specific items and short reports.
Key benefits include...
saves buyer time required to research a vessel
saves travel expenses to ensure the vessel is worth the trip to see
helps narrow vessel search criteria
Damage Assessments
A damage inspection is an investigation to assess the scope of damage, recommended repairs, and estimated repair costs. Insurance companies can also request a root cause analysis, or the probable cause, or damage.
Key benefits include...
receive cost estimates for insurance claims
access to reliable marine repair referrals
objective view of the accident and repairs needed
Commercial Vessel & Tank Surveys
These surveys of commercial vessels can help business owners follow published USCG Regulations for passenger vessels, towing vessels and cargo tanks.
Prices & Fees
Marine Survey prices and fees can vary based on vessel make, model and year; complexity of the systems and the required survey report data. Here are some estimated fees for planning purposes...
$30/foot for the average pre-purchase report
$28/foot for the average insurance reports
$150 additional for larger vessels and bridges.
$200 for the average walk-thru vessel report
$85 for each oil sample pull
$0.61/mile travel fees over 90 miles
10% military, veteran and first responder discount.