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.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
New to owning a yacht, this was my first experience of providing a survey for insurance renewal. It couldn't have been easier - and it was quite enjoyable ! Tom Hustler carried out part of the survey afloat, part ashore. Throughout, he was happy to involve me, explaining what he had found, and very patient when explaining the relevance. He even waited for me to see to some points before he finalised the survey report - so no problem renewing the insurance. And all completed on time, for the agreed charge. I have no hesitation in recommending Seaworthy Services for the straightforward task of surveying a medium sized yacht. From tales along the way, it is clear Tom is also well respected for much grander nautical projects.
Richard
Halberg Rassy Owner
"Mr Tom Hustler, Principal of Seaworthy Services, has provided an outstanding service to us as absentee owners of our 10.5 m yacht Gusto. Following a detailed and highly professional assessment, in his Marine Surveyor role, of three yachts we had been considering, we decided to purchase Gusto and approach Tom to see if he was in a position to continue his involvement with us and manage all aspects of her annual preparation for sea. We were delighted that Tom responded affirmatively. With prompt, timely, relevant and friendly professional utilisation of e-mail and phone as required, Tom keeps us fully informed on all issues relevant to the management of her care and maintenance. Tom visits Gusto on at least a weekly basis. He takes a proactive approach, assessing not only any immediate action required but also preventative maintenance necessary. Tom similarly carefully presents his thoughts about any upgrading of Gusto's systems, always being aware of the relevance of his recommendations to our sailing plans. He arranges quotes by service providers, and then oversees work undertaken. Most recently, for example, Tom has arranged and overseen the installation of an AIS ; undertaken all the detail associated with the Registration of Gusto in Jersey, including in his role as a Marine Surveyor, preparing all the documentation (Tonnage Certificate, Marking Notes); and responded to our e-mail seeking his comment about the fitting of solar panels and a folding propeller. Mr Hustler is absolutely reliable, honest, and objective. He holds to and meets the highest standards of personal and professional integrity. It is with the fullest confidence we recommend Tom and Seaworthy Services Ltd. Andrew Gordon and Marie, "Gusto".
Andrew & Marie
Beneteau Oceanis 34 Owners
"Tom Hustler performed an extremely thorough and complete survey of my 9.5 metre yacht over two days - one on/in the boat (on land) and one up the mast and at my home checking all sails, cushions and accessories. His report (35pp) was detailed, clear and illustrated. Also provided 200+ photographs. Items requiring work were clearly identified and tabulated in categories of importance, along with practical suggestions for remediation. Only complaint was from my rigger, who had not expected his previous year's work to be checked! Tom is easy to work with, turns up when he says, and reports very quickly. Price was right. No hesitation in recommending Seaworthy Services."
Guy
Yachtsman
"Excellent service provided by Seaworthy Services. The marine survey was comprehensive thorough and very fair. Much of the report contained photographic evidence which made clear exactly what was being talked about. This produced a really useful action plan for continued maintenance of my boat."
Paul
Yachtsman
“Tom from Seaworthy Services provided an excellent survey service after I purchased ‘KINGFISHER’ a 1950’s 16ft Carvel planked launch. He conducted a very thorough inspection, taking time to explain key points to me. The report came back very quickly; it was comprehensive, clear and made sensible recommendations. I would strongly recommend Tom and the services he provides.”
Mathew
Classic motorlaunch Owner
Our prospective purchase a Swift Trawler 34 was surveyed. We had excellent service and brilliant communication before, during and after the survey. Highly recommended
Stuart
Beneteau Swift Trawler Owner
“Tom surveyed my boat and the service he provided was excellent. He provided me with a comprehensive report on the condition of the boat and then kindly arranged for a company to inspect and estimate for the works needed. He has been most helpful throughout this process and nothing has been too much trouble for him. I’d have no hesitation in recommending him or using his services again in the future.”
Mimi
Owner
I bought a Motor boat without seeing her as I was away with work. Tom surveyed and went through the vessel thouroughly making the purchase hassle free but also left me secure in the knowledge that I was buying a well checked boat
John
Jeanneau Merry Fisher Owner
Excellent service. We commissioned an insurance condition and valuation report from Seaworthy Services. Tom Hustler carried out the inspection and report on our wooden 1930's gaff cutter. We communicated largely by email and Tom was very good to deal with - getting back to us and answering our queries promptly. He inspected her at the yard during lay up, meeting and liaising with our boatbuilder for this. He gave our boat a thorough inspection and highlighted issues that we needed to sort out so that we had time to do so before Spring launch. He finalised the report after a fair amount of work was done and made the necessary adjustments to the final report. All went smoothly and I could not have asked for more. I would say also that the fees charged were reasonable. I would certainly recommend Seaworthy Services.
Arabella
Classic yacht Owner
We were really impressed with the survey and advice given to us. Tom was extremely helpful in explaining everything to us and was happy to share supporting information so that we could make informed decisions about our future sailing endeavors. I would certainly recommend Seaworthy Services in future
Michelle
Client
I got a Cygnus Cygnet surveyed by Tom at the start of this year. I relied 100% on the survey report when purchasing the boat as the boat was at the opposite end of the country. Service and detail of the survey was excellent and I would highly recommend Seaworthy Services.
Jonathan
Fishing boat Owner