Large-yacht systems experience applied to the purchase decision.
A purchase survey should help you distinguish significant defects from routine maintenance, understand the implications of observed conditions and identify questions that require specialist attention. Justin Grubb brings more than 30 years of marine experience, including service as a chief engineer, vessel construction and major-yacht refit management.
That background informs the assessment of how structure, machinery and onboard systems work together. The survey is undertaken for the purchaser under an agreed scope, with findings communicated independently of the seller and brokerage.
A scope built around the yacht
- Accessible hull, deck, superstructure, bulkheads and structural connections
- Underwater hull, hull penetrations, seacocks, running gear and accessible appendages during haul-out
- Propulsion and generator installations, steering, fuel and associated systems
- AC/DC electrical installations, batteries, charging and shore-power arrangements
- Bilge pumping, plumbing, HVAC and installed equipment within the agreed scope
- Safety equipment, fire protection and relevant vessel documentation
- Exterior coatings, teak and visible accommodation condition
The proposed scope is confirmed against the vessel’s size, construction, flag, equipment, access and purchase timetable.
From planning to sea trial and haul-out.
1. Establish the scope and attendance plan
Discuss the yacht, location, buyer’s concerns and contractual survey deadlines. Develop an attendance plan that allows for the vessel’s size, systems and required reporting. Agree access, onboard attendance, haul-out, sea trial and specialist involvement with the buyer and relevant parties.
2. Review available records
Review supplied specifications, maintenance and refit records, equipment service information and relevant flag or class documentation. Record gaps, inconsistencies and matters requiring confirmation.
3. Inspect aboard and ashore
Assess accessible structure, installations and systems through visual, non-destructive inspection and appropriate demonstrations. Haul-out provides access to the underwater hull, penetrations and running gear that cannot be adequately assessed afloat.
4. Observe operation underway
During the agreed sea trial, observe vessel handling, steering, controls and machinery operation. Record available operating indications, performance and any abnormal conditions within the survey scope and prevailing trial conditions.
Specialists coordinated around a clear division of responsibility.
Justin leads the hull and systems survey, maintaining a clear technical point of contact for the purchaser. Large yachts may require separate engine, generator, electrical, rigging or other specialist inspections. Specialist attendance can be coordinated as part of the survey plan, with appointment, fees and responsibilities agreed in advance.
Manufacturer-qualified machinery technicians should undertake the agreed engine diagnostics and internal-condition assessment. Specialist reports remain their own professional findings; material results can be considered alongside the hull and systems survey where supplied in time.
Clear reporting for the purchaser
- A written condition report supported by relevant photographs
- Prioritized findings separating safety concerns, matters requiring timely attention and general observations
- Recommendations for corrective work, further testing or specialist investigation
- Recorded access restrictions, equipment not demonstrated and inspection limitations
- Market valuation where included in the agreed commission
- A discussion of material findings and questions arising from the report
The aim is to support an informed purchase decision and practical discussions with the buyer’s broker, advisers and repair contractors. Any repair-cost opinions or contractor quotations require a separately agreed scope.
Scope and limitations stated clearly.
The survey is visual, non-destructive and undertaken with the vessel as presented. Equipment is energized or demonstrated only where safe and practicable; full-load testing and dismantling are not included unless expressly agreed. Concealed structure and the internal condition of engines, generators and gearboxes are outside the general survey scope.
Relevant regulations, recognized standards, manufacturer information and vessel records inform the assessment according to the yacht’s flag, type and use. A purchase survey does not replace a statutory or classification survey or guarantee future performance.