Types of Surveys

A pre-purchase survey for complex motor vessels is a comprehensive inspection carried out before purchase to evaluate the vessel’s overall condition, safety, and value. 

It covers the hull, structure, machinery, propulsion, electrical and electronic systems, fuel and hydraulic systems, and onboard automation. Particular attention is given to the integration and performance of multiple systems (such as generators, stabilizers, bow/stern thrusters, and control networks), compliance with class and regulatory requirements, maintenance history, and operational readiness. 

The survey typically includes dock inspection, system testing, and sea trials, with findings used to identify defects, assess risks, and support purchase negotiations.

A superyacht survey is a comprehensive inspection of a yacht’s condition, safety, and compliance. It is typically carried out by a certified marine surveyor and may occur during a purchase, refit, insurance renewal, or routine maintenance cycle. 

The survey assesses the vessel’s hull, structure, mechanical systems, electrical systems, navigation equipment, safety gear, and cosmetic condition. It also includes sea trials to evaluate performance and handling. 

Findings are documented in a detailed report outlining the yacht’s current state, needed repairs, regulatory compliance, and estimated maintenance or refit costs.

A condition survey for insurance purposes is an inspection of a motor vessel carried out to assess its current state of maintenance, safety, seaworthiness and market value. 

The survey reviews the hull and structure, machinery and propulsion, electrical systems, steering and controls, essential safety equipment and onboard inventory. 

Its purpose is to confirm that the vessel represents an acceptable risk to insurers, establish an insured value, identify deficiencies or overdue maintenance, and recommend repairs or conditions of cover to support continued insurance coverage.

A condition survey is a detailed inspection of a vessel’s overall state, carried out for an existing owner rather than a buyer. 

The survey process is similar to a pre-purchase survey and assesses the hull, structure, machinery, systems, and safety equipment. Its primary purpose is to identify defects, wear, and areas requiring attention, making it a valuable tool for planning maintenance, repairs, and long-term upkeep of the vessel.

A damage survey is conducted when a vessel has suffered loss or damage to identify the cause, nature, and extent of the damage. 

The survey documents affected structures, machinery, and systems, assesses the severity of the damage, and recommends repair methods. 

The resulting report is commonly used by insurers, owners, and boatyards to prepare accurate repair quotations, and to support insurance claims and repair planning.

Engine and stern gear  inspections involve a detailed assessment of the vessel’s propulsion machinery, including engines, stern gear, outdrives, and pod / IPS systems. 

As these components are often the most expensive to maintain or repair, the inspection focuses on condition, performance, installation quality, and signs of wear or damage. 

A wide range of mechanical installations can be examined, helping identify defects, maintenance needs, and potential future costs to support informed ownership and operational decisions.

A vessel valuation is a limited inspection carried out to establish an approximate market value of a vessel. It is not a survey and does not assess overall condition, seaworthiness, or safety in detail. 

The valuation is based on general observations, vessel particulars, and current market data, and is typically used for insurance, financing, or administrative purposes.

Expert witness and consultancy services offer independent specialist advice and technical support across a wide range of marine matters. 

This includes assessing accident damage, reviewing and inspecting boatyard repairs, and overseeing mechanical and electrical refit work. 

Expertise also extends to onboard power and energy systems, including solar installations, lithium battery systems, power generation, inverters, and monitoring equipment, providing informed guidance for dispute resolution, compliance, and project management.