At HLY Yachts, we understand that a yacht is not just a purchase—it’s an investment, a lifestyle, and a responsibility. That’s why comprehensive yacht surveys are a critical component of smart ownership and long-term vessel care.
Whether you’re in the process of purchasing a yacht, maintaining your current vessel, acquiring insurance, or looking for a marina’s approval, a professional survey provides invaluable insights into its condition, safety, and performance.
Different Types Of Yacht Surveys And Why They Are Essential?
Pre-Purchase Survey
Before purchasing any vessel, a professional marine survey is essential. A pre-purchase survey identifies potential structural, mechanical, and cosmetic issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. This information allows buyers to make informed decisions, accurately assess the vessel’s condition, and, when appropriate, renegotiate purchase pricing or repair terms prior to closing.
Annual Condition Survey
Yachts, like homes and vehicles, require ongoing inspection and maintenance to remain safe, reliable, and insurable. An annual condition survey helps identify normal wear, deferred maintenance, and developing issues before they escalate into costly repairs. These surveys provide owners with a proactive assessment of a vessel’s overall condition and are commonly used for maintenance planning, insurance compliance, and marina requirements.
Insurance Survey
An insurance survey is conducted to meet the requirements of marine insurance underwriters. This survey evaluates the vessel’s overall condition, safety systems, structural integrity, and compliance with applicable standards. Insurance surveys help underwriters assess risk and are often required when obtaining new coverage, renewing an existing policy, or after significant modifications or claims.
Marina Acceptance Survey
A marina acceptance survey is performed to satisfy marina or harbor requirements for vessel occupancy. This survey focuses on general seaworthiness, safety equipment, environmental compliance, and overall condition. Marinas use these surveys to ensure vessels meet their standards and do not pose safety or environmental risks within the facility.
Our Unique And Expert Hands-On Approach
Thanks to our extensive background in yacht management, HLY Yachts brings a uniquely thorough and experienced perspective to every survey we perform or oversee. Our approach goes beyond surface-level checks—we look at the bigger picture, assessing long-term service needs, compliance, and operational integrity.
At HLY Yachts, our daily, hands-on experience managing yachts gives us a distinct advantage. From electrical system repairs, solar design and installation, bilge cleaning, and oxidation removal, to routine maintenance tasks like cleaning sea strainers, we understand how each component below the waterline interacts within the broader ecosystem of your vessel.
This practical expertise allows us to approach surveys with a discerning eye and a deep understanding of the common issues—and hidden risks—that can arise underwater. We don’t just tick boxes; we assess your yacht’s underwater condition with the thoroughness it deserves.
We believe in being realistic: every yacht requires work. Even if a vessel appears to be in perfect shape, there will always be systems that need attention, maintenance, or upgrades. If you happen to come across a yacht that seems “turn-key,” it likely means that necessary maintenance has simply not yet been identified.
Want to schedule a survey or learn more about what to expect?
📞 Call us today and let the experts give you the confidence and clarity you need.