Question 1

What is included in a pre-purchase yacht survey?

Accepted Answer

A comprehensive pre-purchase yacht survey includes a full structural assessment of the hull and deck, evaluation of all onboard systems (electrical, plumbing, navigation, safety equipment), engine and machinery inspection, sea trial if applicable, and a detailed written report with photographs documenting our findings. We also provide a fair market valuation and highlight any areas requiring immediate attention or future maintenance.

Question 2

How long does a yacht survey take?

Accepted Answer

The duration depends on the yacht's size, type, and complexity. A typical motor yacht under 15 meters requires 4–6 hours on-site, while commercial vessels may require 2–3 days of thorough inspection. Each survey type has different time requirements—for example, a valuation is quicker than a comprehensive pre-purchase survey. We always allocate sufficient time to ensure no detail is overlooked, and provide a comprehensive report within 7 business days after the survey date.

Question 3

Should I attend the pre-purchase survey?

Accepted Answer

We strongly encourage buyers to attend. Your presence allows you to see the yacht's condition firsthand, ask questions in real-time, and gain valuable knowledge about the vessel you're considering. If you cannot attend, we provide detailed photo and video documentation alongside our written report.

Question 4

Why do I need a surveyor for a new build yacht?

Accepted Answer

A new build surveyor acts as your independent technical advocate throughout construction. Even the best shipyards benefit from external quality control. We verify that construction matches specifications, materials meet agreed standards, and workmanship is of the highest quality. Our involvement often prevents costly issues that would otherwise only surface months or years after delivery.

Question 5

At what stages do you inspect during construction?

Accepted Answer

We recommend inspections at key milestones: hull lamination or welding, deck joining, systems installation (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), machinery installation, interior fit-out stages, and pre-delivery sea trials. The exact schedule depends on the yacht type and construction method. We work with you to create a tailored inspection program.

Question 6

How much does a yacht survey cost?

Accepted Answer

Survey fees are based on the yacht's length, type, complexity, and location. Fortunately, we cover almost all of Germany within a 300km radius of our surveyors, and operate from major cities with excellent flight, train, and ferry connections—ensuring the lowest travel costs for you. This often makes us competitive with local surveyors in other countries, while guaranteeing top-tier quality. We offer a free video consultation to understand your needs, followed by a fully transparent quote within 24 hours. We provide detailed quotes before any work begins, with no hidden fees. Travel costs are quoted separately.

Question 7

What qualifications do your surveyors have?

Accepted Answer

All our surveyors hold relevant naval architecture or marine engineering qualifications and are certified by recognized professional bodies. Our team has collective experience exceeding 50 years in yacht construction, repair, and surveying.

Question 8

How do I book a yacht survey?

Accepted Answer

Contact us with details about the yacht (type, length, location, your timeline). We'll provide a quote and confirm surveyor availability. Once accepted, we coordinate directly with the seller or shipyard to arrange access. For urgent surveys, we often accommodate requests within 48-72 hours across Europe.

Question 9

Do I need a survey for yacht insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most insurers require a condition survey for yachts over a certain age or value. Even when not mandatory, a recent survey can lead to better premium rates and smoother claims processing. We provide insurance-specific survey formats accepted by all major marine insurers.

Question 10

How is yacht valuation determined?

Accepted Answer

Our valuations consider current market conditions, the yacht's age, condition, equipment, maintenance history, and comparable recent sales. We access international yacht sales databases and our extensive network to provide accurate, defensible valuations for insurance, sale, or estate purposes.

Question 11

What happens if damage is found during a survey?

Accepted Answer

We document all findings objectively with photographs and detailed descriptions. For pre-purchase surveys, this information supports your negotiation with the seller. For insurance claims, our reports meet the documentation standards required by insurers. We can recommend qualified repair yards and provide repair cost estimates.

Question 12

Can you help with insurance claims?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide damage assessment reports that meet insurer requirements, itemized repair cost estimates, and can liaise directly with loss adjusters. Our objective documentation and industry credibility help ensure fair claim settlements.

Yacht Valuation

How we work together

Purpose Discussion

Documentation Review

Market Analysis

On-Board Assessment

Valuation Report

Negotiation Support

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Frequently Asked Questions

Pre-Purchase Survey

New Build Supervision

Costs & Process

Insurance & Valuation

Damage & Claims

Related surveys

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