Boat Surveys
Protect Your Investment with the Right Marine Survey
A boat survey is one of the most important steps in buying, insuring, or financing a vessel. Marine surveys provide an independent, professional assessment of a boat’s condition, value, and overall seaworthiness.
At Performance Yacht Sales, our brokers help guide you through the survey process by recommending qualified, independent marine surveyors and ensuring you obtain the correct type of a survey for your specific needs.
Types of Boat Surveys
Pre-Purchase Survey (Condition & Valuation)
A Pre-Purchase Survey is the most comprehensive type of marine survey and is conducted when a
buyer is considering purchasing a vessel.
This survey typically includes:
This survey typically includes:
- A full inspection of the vessel in and out of the water
- Evaluation of hull, deck, structure, and systems
- Operational testing of engines, mechanical, and electrical systems
- A sea trial to assess performance and handling
- A detailed Condition & Valuation (C&V) report
The primary purpose of a pre-purchase survey is to give buyers the information they need to make
an informed purchasing decision. Lenders and insurance providers often require this survey to
confirm the vessel’s market value and overall risk profile.
Limited Condition & Valuation Survey (Insurance Survey)
A Limited Condition & Valuation Survey is most commonly required for insurance purposes.
Key characteristics include:
Key characteristics include:
- May be conducted with the vessel afloat or hauled, depending on insurer requirements
- Often does not include a sea trial or full operational testing
- Focuses on insurability and general condition rather than purchase suitability
Insurance companies have different requirements based on vessel age, size, and construction type. This is especially important for non-fiberglass vessels such as wood, steel, or aluminum boats.
A limited C&V survey is not sufficient for making an informed buying decision
Appraisal Survey
An Appraisal Survey establishes the fair market value of a vessel for non-purchase purposes,
including:
- Financing and loan approvals
- Estate planning or probate
- Divorce settlements
- Charitable donations
Certified marine surveyors are recognized by banks, courts, the IRS, and insurance companies as
qualified vessel appraisers within their areas of expertise.
Choosing the Right Marine Surveyor
Performance Yacht Sales brokers will:
- Provide a list of qualified, independent marine surveyors
- Recommend the appropriate survey type based on your situation
- Coordinate scheduling with haul-out facilities, marinas, and sellers
- Attend surveys when appropriate to help interpret findings
While surveyors work independently, our role is to help you understand results and next steps.
Why Boat Surveys Matter
A professional marine survey helps:
- Identify safety or structural issues
- Avoid unexpected repair costs
- Support price negotiations or repair requests
- Satisfy lender and insurance requirements
- Protect your investment long-term
Let Us Guide You Through the Process
Whether you are buying, insuring, financing, or valuing a boat, selecting the right survey is critical. Our experienced brokers are here to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Contact Performance Yacht Sales to speak with a broker about marine surveys and next steps.
Boat Survey FAQs
What is a boat survey?
A boat survey is a professional inspection performed by a certified marine surveyor to evaluate a
vessel’s condition, safety, and market value. Surveys are commonly required when buying, insuring, financing, or appraising a boat.
Do I need a boat survey when buying a yacht?
Yes. A pre-purchase boat survey is strongly recommended and often required by lenders and insurance companies. It helps buyers identify structural, mechanical, and safety issues before completing a purchase.
What is a pre-purchase boat survey?
A pre-purchase survey is a comprehensive Condition & Valuation (C&V) survey conducted when someone is considering buying a vessel. It typically includes an in-water and out-of-water inspection, system testing, a sea trial, and a detailed written report.
What does a pre-purchase survey include?
A pre-purchase survey usually includes:
Hull, deck, and structural inspection
Engine, mechanical, and electrical system evaluation
Safety equipment review
Sea trial and operational testing
Market valuation and condition report
What is a limited condition and valuation survey?
A limited Condition & Valuation survey is most commonly required for insurance purposes. It
focuses on general condition and insurability and may not include a sea trial or full system testing.
Is an insurance survey the same as a pre-purchase survey?
No. An insurance survey is more limited and is not sufficient to make an informed buying decision. A pre-purchase survey provides significantly more detail and buyer protection.
When is a haul-out required for a boat survey?
A haul-out is usually required for pre-purchase surveys to allow inspection of the hull, running gear, and underwater components. Insurance surveys may or may not require a haul-out depending on insurer guidelines.
What is an appraisal survey used for?
An appraisal survey establishes a boat’s fair market value for purposes such as financing, estate planning, divorce settlements, or charitable donations. Appraisal surveys are recognized by banks, courts, and the IRS.
Who chooses the marine surveyor?
Buyers typically select the marine surveyor. Performance Yacht Sales brokers provide a list of qualified, independent surveyors and can recommend the appropriate type of survey based on your needs
Does the broker attend the boat survey?
In many cases, yes. A broker may attend the sea trial and survey to help buyers understand findings and determine appropriate next steps, including negotiation or repair requests.
How long does a boat survey take?
Most boat surveys take several hours to a full day depending on vessel size, complexity, and survey type. Survey reports are typically delivered within a few days.
How much does a boat survey cost?
Survey costs vary based on vessel size, type, and survey scope. Most marine surveys are priced per foot of boat length and are paid directly by the buyer.
Can a boat survey affect the purchase price?
Yes. Survey findings often provide leverage to renegotiate price, request repairs, or require credits
before closing.
Are boat surveys required for financing and insurance?
Yes. Most lenders and insurance companies require a current Condition & Valuation survey to confirm the vessel’s value and risk profile.
Why should I use a broker during the survey process?
A broker helps coordinate the survey, interpret results, manage negotiations, and ensure survey findings are addressed properly—protecting buyers from costly mistake.