Yacht surveyors and consultants

Boats can be complex pieces of kit, so the idea of taking on a largely unknown quantity based on a cursory inspection, is unwise in many cases:

·  Unlike houses, power and sail-driven yachts can encounter extreme conditions. The safety of you, your family and friends is the top priority.

·  A good marine surveyor can poke around and ask awkward and pointed questions without restriction or embarrassment. 

When it comes to deciding on a boat it's important to choose the right 'fit', condition and quality against your available budget:

·  It's easy to get carried away. We know this as boat owners ourselves, so it pays to go through the process in a controlled way without being restrictive. ·  A qualified and insured marine surveyor is the ideal partner and impartial sounding board; they are not emotionally involved in the purchase.

Peace of mind is the aim: 

·  Better to know what you are getting into at a time when it's still possible to re-negotiate with a stronger position, or pull out, if a purchase is no longer appealing or recommended.

·  A thorough marine survey can also form the basis of a refit and/or upgrades, which a good yard will be able to quote upon.

Insurance companies are often very keen to see structural and general surveys for new (to owner) vessels, at times making it a condition of cover - remember to check out your insurer's policies.

Periodic Insurance renewal surveys are also part of many companies requirements.

Finally, the simple act of arranging a survey gives pause for reflection: does this boat match my condition expectations; does it suit my level of experience; my intended cruising areas? 

By the time the survey is complete, the comments are considered and some days have passed, you will have answered these important questions.