survey

Nov 2, 2015
196
hunter 30 bat n.c.
hello would like advice on getting a survey done on my 30' hunter cheribinni. How do you get this done and what are the cost's!
 
Apr 20, 2016
21
Hunter 34 New Bern
is it for insurance or purchases? when we bought our boat I asked around at the marina that i sail out of and was given the name of a guy that had several certifications we agreed on a time with the owners broker and did a sea trial along with the survey at the same time it was 6 hour check it cost north of $600 well worth every penny. if for Insurance I understand it is less expensive but ask around who people use not who the broker uses also ask what they charge mine was a by the foot price
 
Dec 1, 1999
2,391
Hunter 28.5 Chesapeake Bay
The term "survey" means different things to different people. It can include, or not, the structural integrity of hull and deck, the condition of various pieces of equipment, how well the boat sails and the condition of the sails and rig, an assessment of the engine to include a compression test, a sea trial, the true "value" of the boat, and so forth. All of these factors will add to the cost of a "survey." Contact BoatUS to get a list of surveyors in your area. Discuss the surveyors qualifications with him/her and be sure you know what he/she will do or not. Some surveyors, for example, will climb the mast and check the mast head fittings, others will not. Some are experts on marine engines; others may only be able to turn the engine on to see if it runs. Finally, ask the surveyor to show you copies of surveys he/she has done on exactly the same boat you plan to buy. Also, be sure you can accompany the surveyor when your intended boat is surveyed so you can learn and ask questions. An investment in a competent surveyor will pay you back many future dividends. Good luck with this.
 
Jun 8, 2004
2,959
Catalina 320 Dana Point
NAMS and SAMS are the two certifying agencies here in the states, both are professional organizations with no governmental oversight or ties. The websites for both should have answers for many of your questions and will also list surveyors in your area.
http://www.namsglobal.org/
http://www.marinesurvey.org/
It's been a while since I had one done but a "pre-purchase" survey for a 30' boat would be about $300 plus your haul out fees. This would not include a detailed mechanical on engine but would include an overall opinion on mechanical systems. Also would only inspect rigging "from the deck" and is also an estimate of "overall condition". You can usually arrange for a short term "lunchtime" haulout at a slightly reduced rate, they pull they boat and leave it in the slings while they go to lunch and you survey the hull. Some yards include a pressure wash with haul which certainly aids in the inspection, last time I had it done it was $180 for a 32' boat.
Basically if the boat is in pristine condition the best most surveyors will offer is "I see no reason to not proceed with your purchase."