Sea Trial Surveys

Get confidence on the water – we test how your boat performs at sea. A sea trail reveals what a dockside inspection cannot.

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Ensure Your Boat Performs Before You Buy or Sail

Our Sea Trial Surveys provide a thorough performance and handling assessment for motorboats and sailing yachts. Designed exclusively for boat owners and buyers in the UK leisure sector, we accompany you on a controlled sea trial to evaluate real-world behaviour, engine response, onboard systems, and overall seaworthiness.

What The Sea Trail Survey Covers

  • Engine performance under load and rpm checks
  • Steering and handling under various conditions
  • Vibration, noise, and resonance assessments
  • Navigation and electronic system functionality
  • propulsion system inspection underway with temperature and pressure readings monitored
  • Throttle and gearbox response
  • Water ingress and bilge pump activity monitoring
  • Structural flex or unusual movements
  • Infrared scans of Engines and electrical switchboard to check for hotspots

Is a Sea Trial Survey Right for You?

  • Private individuals buying a second-hand motorboat or sailing yacht
  • Owners seeking performance reassurance
  • Buyers who already have a pre-purchase survey and want a dynamic performance check
  • Anyone wanting peace of mind before final payment or handover
  • After major refit or upgrade
  • Before extended voyages or offshore passages

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.

Do I need a Boat Survey before buying?

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.

How much does a Boat Survey cost?

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.

What does a Boat Survey include?

Our surveys include a full inspection of hull, deck, rig, systems, machinery and safety gear. A detailed report with photos and recommendations is provided.

How long does a Boat Survey take?

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 Your Pre-purchase Boat Survey?

Fast, professional, and fully independent boat surveys across the UK coastline – from Lowestoft to Milford Haven.