Advice

Taking a boat out for a sea trial—sometimes commissioned as part of a pre-purchase or boat health survey—is like taking a vehicle out for a test drive. It’s your opportunity to see how the boat performs under real-world conditions, uncover hidden issues, and gain confidence in your purchase. At UK Boat Surveys, our Sea Trial Surveys give you exactly that—a hands-on, dynamic performance and handling assessment.

Buying a narrowboat is an exciting step, whether it’s for leisure cruising on the UK’s inland waterways or as a liveaboard home. But before you hand over any money, a professional narrowboat survey is essential. These boats may look charming and sturdy, but the condition of the hull can make the difference between years of happy boating and costly repair bills.

Buying a boat is an exciting step, but it’s also a big financial decision. A pre-purchase boat survey gives you peace of mind by uncovering any hidden problems before money changes hands. It’s the marine equivalent of a homebuyer’s survey — protecting you from costly surprises and helping you make a confident purchase.

If you’re insuring a boat — especially an older one — your insurer may request a marine insurance survey. But what exactly are they looking for? In this post, we break down what’s involved in an insurance survey, why it’s required, and how it can help you avoid claim problems down the line.

Buying a used boat is a big investment — and while it’s tempting to rely on appearances or a seller’s word, a professional boat survey can protect you from hidden issues and unexpected costs. This article explains why getting a marine survey is one of the smartest moves you can make when purchasing a second-hand vessel.

Getting ready for a boat survey? Whether you’re buying, selling, or insuring your vessel, preparation is key. In this article, we walk you through exactly how to get your boat ready for a professional survey — making the process smoother, faster, and more cost-effective.