Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
During a Survey
A full survey will have three parts. First, the vessel should be examined out of the water to
inspect the hull, keel, rudder, and propeller. The second section is a dockside component,
inspecting the deck, internal structure, and all systems while the boat is afloat. The final
part is a sea trial to check the rigging, sails, and engine at work.
Normally, a surveyor will avoid destructive testing, taking readings with a moisture meter
and tapping the hull with a rubber-tipped hammer. An experienced inspector will notice a
spongy feeling on deck and pick up subtle differences between the hammer's pings. If the
surveyor suspects damage or weakness, he might recommend exposing a section of fiber-
glass or taking a core. A few key areas on some hulls might be impossible to access
without destructive measures (on our sloop, for example, the keel bolts are glassed over).
This means an owner must decide whether to leave well enough alone or go all the way by
opening up these areas. This decision can be based on the boat's age, history, and any evid-
ence of possible damage.
There are two specialty areas that many surveyors do not cover in detail: most will not go
aloft to inspect standing rigging, nor are they qualified mechanics who can make more than
a general engine inspection. Buyers interested in older vessels should consider bringing in a
specialist rigger and mechanic. The fees do add up, but it can be a worthwhile investment
considering the costs of rigging or engine failure (not to mention the potential for endan-
gering the crew).
A true professional is like a teacher and safety coach in one, making sure you have the best
boat for your purpose and budget. A boat that is not suitable for one sailor may be perfect
for another, and the surveyor will act as a matchmaker between boat and sailor in a pre-pur-
chase survey. For owners who already know their boats well, a surveyor can bring the tools
and fresh perspective needed to find any weaknesses lurking beneath the surface.
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