1. Clean and Declutter

Prepare the vessel so that all areas can be safely and easily inspected.  Surveyor Tip: If it can’t be accessed, it won’t be inspected.

✔ Remove excess gear and personal items
✔ Empty storage compartments and lockers
✔ Clean decks, bilges, and interior spaces
✔ Ensure hatches, access panels, and lockers open freely
✔ Pump out holding and gray-water tanks

2. Confirm All Systems Are Operational

✔ Start engines and confirm normal operation  Note: Non-operational systems must be documented and may influence valuation and insurance approval.
✔ Test bilge pumps, lighting, electronics, plumbing, and steering
✔ Ensure batteries are fully charged
✔ Top off fuel and water if applicable

3. Prepare Vessel Documentation

✔ Vessel registration and/or title ‍ ‍ Note: Will also expedite report preparation.
✔ Maintenance logs and repair receipts
✔ Previous survey reports (if available)
✔ Equipment lists and owner’s manuals

4. Verify Required Safety Equipment

✔ Life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers
✔ Throwable flotation device and sound signaling device
✔ First-aid kit
✔ Navigation lights operational
✔ Bilge, fire, and CO alarms functional
✔ Required USCG placards properly displayed

Tip: Safety equipment should be reviewed annually for serviceability and expiration dates.

5. Coordinate the Haul-Out (If Required)

Many surveys—particularly pre-purchase inspections—require the vessel to be hauled.

✔ Schedule the lift with your marina or boatyard
✔ Be present or arrange assistance
✔ Clean the hull bottom beforehand if heavily fouled Note: A clean hull allows for accurate visual inspection and percussion sounding.

6. Be Present (If Possible)

While not required, being present during the survey can be beneficial.

✔ Answer questions about maintenance or upgrades
✔ Observe the inspection process
✔ Discuss recommendations directly with the surveyor

Tip: Many owners find this helpful for learning about their vessels systems and condition.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your vessel for a marine survey does not need to be complicated. Taking a few simple steps beforehand helps the inspection proceed efficiently and ensures the vessel’s true condition and value are accurately represented.

Common Marine Survey Types

• Pre-Purchase Marine Surveys
• Insurance Condition & Value Surveys
• Damage and Claim Surveys
• Appraisal and Valuation Surveys

Need Help Preparing for a Marine Survey?

If you are unsure which type of survey you need—or would like assistance preparing your vessel for inspection—please contact us.

Survey Report

Following completion of the inspection, clients typically receive a professional Marine Survey Report within approximately three (3) business days.

The report provides a clear, structured assessment of the vessel and organizes findings into three primary categories:

Safety & Compliance – Items affecting vessel safety or compliance with recognized marine standards and regulations.

Relevant Items Requiring Attention – Deficiencies or maintenance concerns that may affect reliability, longevity, or value.

Surveyor Observations – Noteworthy conditions observed during the inspection that may be useful to the owner or underwriter but may not require immediate corrective action.

Each finding includes a clear and concise recommendation for resolution, allowing vessel owners, insurers, and lenders to quickly understand the significance of each item and the appropriate corrective action.

The report also includes an estimate of Fair Market Value and is formatted to meet the documentation requirements commonly requested by marine insurance underwriters. In many cases, it may also satisfy the appraisal requirements of financial institutions for vessel financing.