Pre-Purchase

As with all investments, especially where large amounts of money are involved it is very important to make sure that you are getting value for money with no hidden surprises that become apparent once the purchase is completed. Vessels are usually sold as seen, giving no chance for a purchaser to return with complaints at a later date.

The answer:- A full Pre-Purchase survey carried out by a qualified surveyor. A full report should be prepared for the client giving the complete picture before any agreement on price or purchase takes place, or a ‘subject to survey’ statement added to any contract specifying time constraints of any such survey. Also a clause for the renegotiation of price and/or repayment of any deposit if any material defects are found.

Aegean Yacht Surveys have the personnel qualified to carry out such a survey and prepare a full report with recommendations. A copy of a specimen report can be viewed here

A Pre- Purchase Survey can include the following, dependant on the clients instructions

Hull, Deck and Structure

  1. Details of Subject Vessel
  2. Keel
  3. Hull below Waterline and moisture readings
  4. Topsides above Waterline including Rubbing Strake
  5. Deck Moulding & Coachroof
  6. Cockpit
  7. Hull/Deck Join
  8. Bulkheads and Structural Stiffening

Steering, Stern Gear, and Skin Fittings

  1. Rudder and Steering
  2. Stern Gear
  3. Cathodic Protection
  4. Skin Fittings and other through Hull Apertures

On Deck

  1. Main Companionway and other Accesses to Accommodation
  2. Ports & Windows
  3. Pulpit, Stanchions, Pushpit, Lifelines and Jackstays
  4. Rigging Attachment Points
  5. Ground Tackle and Mooring Arrangements
  6. Other Deck Gear and Fittings
  7. Davits and Boarding Ladders

Rig

  1. Spars
  2. Standing Rigging
  3. Running Rigging
  4. Sails and Covers

Safety

  1. Navigation Lights
  2. Bilge Pumping Arrangements
  3. Firefighting Equipment
  4. Lifesaving and Emergency Equipment

Engines

  1. Engines and Installation
  2. Generator
  3. Fuel System

Accommodation and on Board Systems

  1. Accommodation General
  2. Gas Installation
  3. Fresh Water Tanks and Delivery
  4. Heads
  5. Electrical Installation
  6. Electronic and Navigation Equipment