Marine & Yacht Surveyors of Distinction

Seaworthy Services is a small, independent marine surveying and consultancy company based in Falmouth, Cornwall in the South West of England. Seaworthy Services operates throughout the UK, Europe and the borders of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Frequently asked questions

These are some of the most common questions that our client's need answering
Surveys are required by insurance companies for any number of reasons. A pre-purchase 'full condition' survey could potentially save a purchaser thousands of pounds should a significant defect be discovered. The survey could enable the purchaser to negotiate a price reduction dependent on the terms of sale. In any event, the defect will have been flagged and can be applied to a program of planned maintenance.
Ideally yes. If a full structural survey is to be carried out then the vessel needs to be out of the water. This is the only way to check below the water line for possible damage, evidence of repairs and structural problems and, in GRP boats, osmosis. The boat should usually be out of the water for at least a week before moisture readings are taken. Most insurance companies will only accept out of the water surveys. We can complete “Lift and hold” surveys where a time deadline is in place, subject to availability at the marina/boatyard.
After the survey has been carried out a fully comprehensive report is produced, averaging 20+ pages with photographs included. The report details all findings made during the survey and includes recommendations for any remedial work required. At the end of the report the recommendations are listed and cross referenced to the text in order of priority. The lists contain not only items that require attention but also advisory recommendations to assist with a routine planned maintenance program. Have a look at the sample report section for details of the areas we cover in a GRP/FRP full condition/pre-purchase surveys.
One of the major benefits of a sea trial is that you get a terrific opportunity to feel how the boat behaves and performs. This is a great opportunity to confirm the boat you’re purchasing is right for you. On the sea trial a surveyor not only has the opportunity to evaluate the engine and overall performance, but also to test the steering, controls, shaftline, engine mounts and exhaust systems. When a sailboat is on sea trial, the overall sailing systems and equipment are also tested. It is very beneficial to conduct a sea trial in open-water. Short stints down a canal usually won’t cut it. This is one of the logistical questions that requires resolving when making arrangements for the survey. Good surveyors recommend open ocean trial runs whenever possible. However, when sea conditions are rough, you have to defer to the seller’s discretion because of the risks that are raised when going out in rough water.
The survey contract will outline the extent of the inspection and list any limitations. The following items are not always included in a full condition survey and may require engaging an outside specialist i.e rigging above head height, electronics including interfacing, engine internal inspections and compression testing. The surveyor can usually recommend an appropriate person or may be able to carry out the work himself at an extra charge.

Testimonials

                 Royal Institution of Naval Architects          YDSA large yacht group