Yacht Pre-Purchase Inspection: Before the Survey

Before paying $1,000-$2,000 for a professional survey, do your own pre-inspection. Many yachts fail this stage and save you the survey fee.

What you can spot yourself

**Exterior obvious signs** - Cracks in the gelcoat - Stress lines around fittings - Damaged bow rails or stanchions - Worn or missing zinc anodes - Damaged or missing teak - Rust streaks on hull

**Deck and cockpit** - Soft spots when you walk (delamination) - Loose or damaged cleats and hardware - Functional dorade vents and hatches - Window seal condition - Lifeline tension and condition

**Engine room first look** - Cleanliness (dirty engine room = neglected boat) - Visible oil leaks - Engine paint condition - Belt and hose condition - Battery age and corrosion - Wiring neatness and labelling

**Interior** - Mildew smell (indicates moisture issues) - Water stains on headliner or bulkheads - Cushion condition - Cabinet and door alignment - Electronics power on

**Operating systems** - Engine starts immediately and runs smoothly - All electronics power on - Lights, pumps, fans work - Refrigeration cold - Plumbing pressurises

Red flags that should kill a deal

• Strong moisture meter readings in hull
• Hull blistering or osmosis damage
• Major structural cracks
• Soft spots in deck (delamination)
• Engine that won't start or runs roughly
• Standing water in bilge
• Strong fuel smell (leaks)
• Frozen seacocks

Yellow flags worth investigating

• Single owner walking around with you (could indicate they're selling reluctantly — fine, or hiding something — bad)
• Recent quick paint job (covering up old damage)
• Brand new electronics on older boat (potential issue or simple upgrade)
• Missing maintenance records
• Boat hasn't been used recently

When to walk away before surveying

If your pre-inspection finds 3+ significant issues, walk away before paying for a professional survey. The seller's price needs to drop substantially or you need to find a different vessel.

What to bring

• Moisture meter (rentable for $50-100)
• Flashlight
• Camera/phone for documentation
• Notebook
• Old clothes (you'll be crawling in tight spaces)

After your inspection

If the boat looks promising, schedule the full survey and sea trial. If you have concerns, share them with the surveyor so they specifically check those areas.