Marine Surveys Explained

A pre-purchase or condition-and-value survey is an inspection of a vessel by a qualified, independent marine surveyor, who reports on its structure, systems, equipment and safety, and often provides a valuation. The surveyor works for the person who commissions the survey — normally the buyer.

Mexico Yacht Sales does not perform surveys. We help you engage independent professionals and coordinate timing, access and haul-outs.

• Hull and structure: laminate condition, moisture readings, evidence of impact or repair, deck and superstructure.
• Underwater gear: running gear, propellers, shafts, rudders, through-hulls, bonding and anodes — usually with the yacht hauled out.
• Machinery: visual and operational checks of engines, generators and auxiliary systems.
• Electrical systems: wiring, panels, batteries, chargers, shore power and corrosion.
• Plumbing and tanks: fuel, water, waste, bilge pumps and alarms.
• Steering, thrusters and stabilizers.
• Safety equipment: fire suppression, extinguishers, life-saving equipment and certification dates.
• Navigation and electronics: function of installed equipment.

A general survey may not include a detailed mechanical assessment. Many buyers add an engine and generator survey by a qualified technician, often with oil analysis, and, where relevant, rigging, electronics, air-conditioning or stabilizer inspections.

A sea trial runs the yacht under load so the surveyor and technicians can observe engine temperatures and pressures, vibration, steering, systems and handling. Plan it in conditions representative of how you will use the boat.

• Book the surveyor and haul-out early; yard slots and professional availability can be limited, especially in the busy season.
• Confirm whether the surveyor and any technicians are qualified for the yacht’s type and size, and acceptable to your insurer.
• Factor in travel time and costs if specialists come from another city.
• Pay attention to issues common in warm, salty, sunny climates: corrosion, UV damage, cooling systems and air conditioning.
• Ask about the vessel’s storm history and repairs.

Survey reports usually rank findings by importance. Discuss the report with your surveyor, obtain estimates for significant items, and decide — under the terms of your agreement — whether to proceed, renegotiate, request repairs or withdraw.

A survey reduces risk; it cannot eliminate it. Surveyors cannot see inside every structure or predict every future failure, and the report will set out what was and was not inspected. Use it together with records, documentation review and professional advice.