Liveaboard & Ocean-Going Suitability Surveys
Is your boat ready for life aboard – or oceans beyond?
Confidence Before You Cast Off
Living aboard or setting sail offshore is a big step — your boat needs to be up to the task. Our specialist surveys evaluate your vessel’s systems, layout, storage, ventilation, seaworthiness, and long-term liveability. Whether you’re planning coastal cruising or a transatlantic passage, we help ensure your boat is truly ready for life at sea.
What our Liveaboard Suitability Surveys Cover
- Structural Integrity – Assess hull and deck for long-term habitability and bluewater resilience
- Insulation & Ventilation – Check suitability for liveaboard comfort in all seasons
- Freshwater & Waste Systems – Evaluate tankage, plumbing, water heaters, and pump reliability
- Galley & Cooking Setup – Safety and practicality check for onboard food prep and gas systems
- Power & Charging Systems – Assess batteries, solar/wind input, charging logic, and capacity for off-grid life
- Safety & Emergency Gear – Inventory check and suitability for offshore use (EPIRBs, life raft, MOB gear)
- Storage & Living Space – Review internal space, moisture ingress, mould, and practical storage layout
- Navigation & Communication – Check that electronics are fit for offshore or long-distance passages
- Rig & Deck Gear (if applicable) – Evaluate condition of rigging, sails, winches, and anchoring equipment
- Engine & Systems Overview – Visual inspection of installation, redundancy, fuel setup, and access
- Sea trial (optional, if arranged)
This Survey is Idea For
- Buyers planning to live aboard full-time
- Sailors preparing for bluewater cruising or long passages
- Owners looking to upgrade or assess their boat’s readiness
- Insurance companies requiring suitability reports for extended use
- Couples or families planning a voyage or sabbatical at sea
Trusted Marine Surveyor with Real World Experience
Led by David Rawlinson, a seasoned yacht captain and qualified marine surveyor, our surveys are backed by over 20 years of professional maritime experience. From boat building to running superyachts up to 80 meters, we bring real-life insight to every inspection.
Qualified & Independent Boat Surveyor
Highly qualified and fully independent - no conflicts of interest. You get a clear, unbiased assessment to make confident decisions.
Fast, Detailed Reports Within 24-48 Hours
Receive comprehensive reports with photos and recommendations delivered fast - 24 hours for priority bookings, 48 hours standard. On the day phone call for instant verbal report.
Southern Area UK Coverage
Based in Southampton, covering from Cornwall to London including Southern Wales and the east coast up to Lowestoft.
Clear Pricing & Instant Online Quotes
No hidden costs. Use our online tool to get an instant quote and book your survey easily.
How Our Boat Surveys Work: A Simple Step-by Step Process
Step 1: Get an Instant Quote
Easily fill in your boat details online with its location and see an instant survey quote. Or call us for a personalised quote tailored to your requirements.
Step 2: Schedule Your Survey
Choose a convenient date for the survey, we will send confirmation via email - we survey across the South Coast and beyond.
Step 3: We Inspect your Boat
We conduct a thorough assessment, on land or afloat. Receive a phone call on the day of survey to talk through the findings.
Step 4: Receive Your Report
You get a detailed, plain-English report within 24 hours under our express service, otherwise its 48 hours. The written report is for insurance, peace of mind, or negotiations.
FAQs - Your Boat Survey Questions Answered
We know booking a Boat Survey can feel daunting – but it does not have to be. Here are answers to the most common questions we get from boat owners across the UK.
Yes – a professional survey give you peace of mind, ensures the vessel is seaworthy, and can reveal hidden problems that may impact value or safety.
Survey costs vary depending on the vessel size and type. Use our instant Quote tool for a fast cost based on your boat’s details.
Our surveys include a full inspection of hull, deck, rig, systems, machinery and safety gear. A detailed report with photos and recommendations is provided.
Most surveys take a full day on board. You will receive the full written report within 24 hours if using our express service, otherwise it is our standard 48 hours.
Ready to Book one of our Liveaboard Suitability Surveys?
Fast, professional, and fully independent boat surveys across the UK coastline – from Lowestoft to Milford Haven.