HomeServices
— Pre-Purchase Survey— Insurance & Valuation— Condition Survey— Damage & Claims— New Build Oversight— Consulting
About
— Conservation— Locations— Marinas We Serve
Resources
— Our Process— Guide to Passing Survey— Get a Yacht Broker— Partners & Associations
Contact(949) 229-1733
Knowledge base

Resources & frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about yacht surveying — from cost and timing to how to prepare your vessel and choose the right surveyor.

Pricing scales with vessel length and the type of survey. A typical pre-purchase survey on a 50-foot vessel starts around $18–$26 per foot of LOA. You'll always receive a fixed, all-in quote before we begin — survey fee and travel, with no surprise add-ons. Insurance (C&V) and condition surveys are typically less than a full pre-purchase.

On-site inspection usually takes one to two days depending on the vessel's size and complexity, plus a sea trial. Superyachts over 30 meters may take longer. Your final bound report is delivered within 48 hours of completing the sea trial.

Yes. Our surveys are written to meet or exceed the requirements of major marine underwriters, and our surveyors carry SAMS and NAMS accreditation. We're happy to coordinate directly with your carrier and tailor the report to their specific checklist.

For a pre-purchase survey, yes — a haul-out is essential to inspect the hull bottom, running gear, through-hulls, and anti-fouling. For insurance and condition surveys it's often required but depends on the insurer's policy and the vessel's age. We coordinate the yard booking and schedule.

Most insurers require a survey every two to five years. Beyond compliance, we recommend a condition survey annually or before any major cruise or refit — catching a failing seacock or tired battery bank early is far cheaper than discovering it offshore.

We survey to ABYC (American Boat & Yacht Council), NFPA 302 (fire protection), USCG, and where applicable, class society standards. Our methodology and reporting meet the expectations of lenders, underwriters, and courts.

Completely. We never broker, list, or sell vessels, and we accept no referral fees. Our only client is the party who commissions the survey. That independence is the foundation of a defensible report — and exactly why brokers and insurers trust our findings.

Have the vessel clean and emptied of personal gear so all areas are accessible. Ensure batteries are charged, systems can be powered up, and the boat can be started and run. Remove or unlock any locked compartments. Provide documentation of recent maintenance, upgrades, and equipment. We send a full prep checklist with your quote.

Yes. While we're based in Newport Beach, we survey worldwide. Travel is built into your fixed quote — see our coverage area for typical destinations, or just ask if yours isn't listed.

Unique to us, every report includes an eco-flag section assessing the vessel's environmental standing — anti-fouling chemistry, black- and grey-water systems, fuel & oil containment, emissions, and efficiency. It's standard on every survey at no extra cost. Learn more on our conservation page.

Owner's quick guide

How to prepare for your survey

A well-prepared vessel makes for a smoother, faster survey — and a more accurate report. Here's the short version.

  • Clear gear so all compartments and bilges are accessible
  • Charge batteries and confirm all systems power up
  • Ensure engines can be started and run to operating temp
  • Gather maintenance records, manuals, and recent invoices
  • Unlock or remove locks from lazarettes and machinery spaces
Yacht prepared for survey
Luxury yacht at marina
Still have questions?

We're happy to talk it through.

Quick call(949) 229-1733