Surveys and Sea Trials

You wouldn't consider buying a car, especially a used one, without having it checked over by a mechanic or taking it out for a test drive. Well, the same precautions hold true for boats.

The buyer's best friend when it comes to inspecting and evaluating the condition and seaworthiness of a boat is a competent marine surveyor, well versed in boat construction, as well as safety and manufacturing laws, requirements, recommendations and practices.

To be sure the inspection is done with your interests in mind, however, hire your own surveyor, rather than using one recommended by the seller. And, don't rely on survey reports commissioned by the owner. They could pre-date existing conditions that need repair or gloss over problems that are expensive to fix, even downright dangerous.

A thorough survey inspection will take six to eight hours, sometimes longer on a new boat. Prospective buyers should plan on attending the survey. It's a great way to learn more about boats, manufacturing techniques and safety considerations. Follow up the survey inspection with a sea trial to see how the boat handles underway. Are there performance problems that make the boat unstable? Does all the gear work properly? All electronic gear should be tested for accuracy.

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