The survey is the moment a buyer sees the yacht as it really is. Photographs and a viewing on a sunny afternoon show the lifestyle. A professional survey shows the hull, the engines, the systems and the paperwork. In the tropics, where heat and humidity are demanding, it is the most important step in any purchase.
When the survey happens
In a typical sale, the buyer and seller agree a price and sign a sale agreement, and the buyer pays a deposit. The agreement then allows a set period for the survey and sea trial. If the survey reveals problems, the buyer can renegotiate, ask for repairs or withdraw under the terms of the agreement. Our guide to buying a yacht in Thailand sets out the full sequence.
Choosing a surveyor
The buyer appoints the surveyor, and the surveyor works for the buyer. Phuket has experienced independent marine surveyors, and larger yachts often call in surveyors from Singapore, Hong Kong or Australia. Look for recognised professional membership, experience with the type of yacht and a sample report you can read before instructing them.
Your insurer may also require a survey of a certain standard, so check their requirements first.
Out of the water
The yacht is hauled out so the surveyor can inspect the hull below the waterline. On a fibreglass yacht, moisture readings help identify osmosis. The surveyor checks the keel and its attachment, the rudder and steering, the propellers and shafts, the seacocks and through hull fittings, and the condition of the antifouling.
In Thailand, the major haul out facilities are in Phuket, and the haul out is usually booked by the broker in agreement with the seller.
On the water
The sea trial tests the yacht under way. Engines are run up to full load, and temperatures and pressures are recorded. On a sailing yacht, the sails are hoisted and the rig is loaded. The surveyor listens for vibration, checks the steering and watches how the yacht behaves.
Many buyers commission a separate engine survey, with oil samples sent for analysis. On larger yachts, a rigging specialist may inspect the mast, standing rigging and fittings aloft.
Systems and equipment
The surveyor tests electrical systems, batteries, generators, air conditioning, water makers, navigation electronics and safety equipment. In the tropics, air conditioning and refrigeration matter, and their condition is worth close attention.
The paperwork
Alongside the physical survey, the buyer’s broker or lawyer checks the ownership documents, registration, any outstanding mortgages or liens, and the import status of the yacht in Thailand. A foreign flagged yacht under temporary import needs particular care, as its status affects what the new owner can do with it. Our guide to foreign flagged yachts in Thailand gives the background.
Reading the report
A survey report lists findings by priority. Safety items and structural issues come first, followed by recommended repairs and routine maintenance. Every used yacht will have findings. The question is which ones matter, and what they cost to put right.
Questions people ask
How much does a yacht survey cost in Thailand?
Survey fees are usually based on the length of the yacht, with haul out, engine and rigging surveys charged separately.
Who pays for the yacht survey?
The buyer pays for the survey, the haul out and the sea trial costs in most sales.
What happens if the survey finds problems?
Under a standard sale agreement, the buyer can negotiate a price adjustment, ask for repairs or withdraw from the purchase.
