Yacht Inspections for Recreational and Commercial Vessels

Vessel & System Inspections to ensure Safety, Compliance, & Comfort of your Vessel

What is a Vessel Inspection

A vessel inspection provides a comprehensive evaluation of a vessel’s major and minor systems, including the hull, decks, electrical systems, propulsion, running gear, steering, helm stations and electronics, plumbing, HVAC, rigging, firefighting systems, fuel systems, ventilation, and installed auxiliary equipment.

The inspection includes detailed visual examination, functional testing, and operational checks of accessible systems and components.

How a Vessel Inspection Differs from a Survey

A marine survey is typically conducted for a specific purpose, such as a vessel purchase, insurance underwriting, or financing. A vessel inspection, by contrast, is intended to support ongoing ownership and maintenance planning.

There is no buyer, seller, broker, or transactional requirement involved. Vessel inspections are designed to be part of a long-term life-cycle maintenance program and generally provide a more in-depth review of systems and equipment than a standard condition survey.

Elements That Differ from a Standard Survey

More in-depth inspection, typically requiring up to two full days aboard the vessel

Expanded operational testing of installed equipment and systems
No Fair Market Value (FMV) determination
High-quality photographic documentation provided electronically
Thermal imaging of selected electrical and mechanical components
Additional thermal imaging when moisture intrusion is detected or suspected
Sound level measurements conducted during sea trials, when applicable
Coordination and information sharing with boatyards or repair facilities, as requested

Elements Similar to a Survey

Haul-out inspection of underwater hull, bottom structure, and running gear, when arranged
Sea trials to observe propulsion and systems operation
A written report format similar in structure to a survey report, tailored to the inspection scope and intended use

Maintain Your Investment

Yachts represent a substantial financial investment and incorporate a wide range of interconnected systems and components, regardless of vessel size.

Deferred maintenance and undiscovered deficiencies tend to increase in scope and cost over time. While postponing repairs may reduce short-term expenses, it often results in significantly higher costs when corrective work is eventually required.

The goal of a vessel inspection is to identify and document existing, developing, or hidden issues so owners can plan, schedule, and budget maintenance and repairs effectively. This approach supports vessel reliability, safety, and long-term value while helping ensure the vessel remains suitable for its intended use.

Key Events for Vessel and Systems Inspections

Key events when a vessel and systems inspection may be appropriate include:

Prior to an extended voyage or seasonal cruise
At the beginning of a shipyard or maintenance period
As part of a scheduled vessel “health check”
Prior to offering a vessel for sale
When no inspection or survey has been performed since the pre-purchase survey (typically 5 years or more)

A detailed written and photographic report is provided documenting observed safety issues, defects, deficiencies, and potential areas of concern. This report may be used to scope and coordinate repairs with boatyards and qualified service providers.