Yacht Inspection – What To Look For
A yacht inspection is an important step in the decision-making process of buying a luxury motor yacht. If you’re at this point, it’s clear that you’re seriously interested in this boat and should know what to look for.
The inspection takes place before the sea trial which is the final step in the sales process. The inspection is one of the most crucial stages in the buying process. If you get the inspection done wrong, you could find yourself in deep water. But if you get it done right, you’re more likely to enjoy your yacht for many years to come.
Here are some tips on what to look for during the inspection that will help you decide that you want to make an offer on a yacht.
Set Realistic Expectations
Setting realistic expectations is one of the first tips to a proper boat inspection. You may inspect several boats before you make your final buying decision. You should prepare a list of items that you want to see, understanding that not every boat will have everything on your list. So you should note which items you’d be willing to compromise on by prioritizing your list.
What to Look For During A Yacht Inspection
If you’re ready for a yacht inspection, it’s a given that you’ve read up on the yacht’s listing and have seen photos or videos. So during your yacht inspection, you should look for things that you couldn’t see in the pictures.
There shouldn’t be any objections to bringing your trusted broker during the inspection or even an experienced friend, especially if you’re an inexperienced yachtsman.
If you’re unsure what to look for, start by looking up the “class” of “yacht” on the internet. If there is any history of problems by a yacht’s class, model, or series, you could find issues noted by other owners. Once you’re ready to begin your inspection:
- Start by doing a quick walk-around, inspecting the condition of the hull and deck, along with the gelcoat or paint.
- Check for structural damage, like chips or cracks, especially in high-stress areas like the stem, chines and strakes.
- Make sure that all equipment is as described in the listing and fully functional.
- Check for signs of water leaks around the seals and gaskets, signs of seepage past the head gasket, or water damage below decks.
- Start and run the engines if possible. An experienced yachtsman can tell if there are serious problems from the sound. You can also check for fuel or oil leaks when inspecting the engines. Check the dipstick, drive belt, and serpentine belt.
- Look at the wiring and check for corrosion.
- Check the upholstery for signs of algae.
Once the inspection is complete, take a pass and move on if you found too many issues. However, if it hit all the priorities on your list, factor in any issues you found that may require repairs before making an offer. Once again, a skilled yacht broker can provide invaluable assistance in determining your next steps in the negotiation process.
Understanding the ins and outs of buying a luxury motor yacht can be complex. If you’re looking for expertise in this area or if you have any questions about our services, contact us at The FindGroup.