Boat Appraisal Survey

Boat Appraisal Survey Scope

A boat appraisal survey is a comprehensive technical and market evaluation carried out by a certified marine surveyor or naval architect.
It applies to all recreational vessels—sailboats, motorboats, catamarans, cruisers, and yachts up to 24 meters—and is used to determine:

• Structural condition

• Mechanical and system integrity

• Equipment and safety status

• Compliance with regulations

• Real market value

This guide defines the universal, standardized scope applied to every marine appraisal survey performed by boatappraisal.es.

1. Documentation & Identity Verification

The appraisal always begins with a full review of vessel identity and legal documentation:

• Registration certificate

• Builder’s plate (CE category, model, serial number)

• Hull Identification Number (HIN)

• Engine serial numbers and documentation

• VAT/ownership papers

• Previous surveys or service history

• Tonnage/registration details (if applicable)

Objective: Confirm that the vessel is legally documented, correctly identified, and traceable

2. Structural Condition Assessment

A complete assessment of the vessel’s structural integrity, valid for all boat types:

Hull

• Hull material condition (GRP, aluminum, steel, wood)

• Gelcoat/paint condition

• Signs of osmosis, blistering, corrosion, cracking

• Keel or running surface inspection

Deck & Superstructure

• Deck core integrity

• Moisture intrusion signs

• Windows, portlights, hatches

• Railings, pulpits, stanchions

Transom & Attachments

• Structural attachments

• Brackets, swim platforms, davits

Objective: Identify structural issues that may affect safety, performance, or value.

Whether the vessel uses inboards, outboards, sterndrives, or saildrives, the inspection includes:

• Engine condition and visual inspection

• Hours verification (ECU/hours meter)

• Gearbox/drive operation (visual assessment)

• Fuel lines, filters, tanks

• Cooling system components

• Steering system and controls

• Propellers, shafts, bearings (where accessible)

Objective: Establish mechanical condition, maintenance level, and economic impact on the vessel’s fair market value.

3. Mechanical & Propulsion System Evaluation

4. Electrical & Electronic Systems

Covers all DC/AC systems for both sailboats and motorboats:

Electrical:

• Battery banks & installation

• Charging systems (alternator, shore charger)

• Main switchboard

• Wiring condition

• Lights & navigation lights

Electronics:

• GPS/plotter

• VHF radio

• Autopilot

• Radar (if fitted)

• Depth sounder, wind/depth instruments

Objective: Evaluate operational status and equipment age for valuation purposes.

5. Plumbing, Tanks & Onboard Systems

6. Interior Condition & Accommodation

Applicable to all recreational craft:

• Freshwater system

• Bilge pumps (automatic & manual)

• Black/grey water systems

• Hot water boiler (if fitted)

• Deck drains & thru-hulls

• Gas installations (if applicable)

• Tank condition (fuel, water, wastewater)

Objective: Confirm serviceability and safety compliance of domestic systems.

Inspection of all interior spaces:

• Structural interior (floors, bulkheads, frames)

• Joinery, furniture, cabinetry

• Upholstery and soft furnishings

• Signs of leaks, humidity, or mold

• Electrical panels and access compartments

Objective: Determine overall preservation level and maintenance quality.

8. Safety Equipment & Compliance

Valid for all craft (with sailing-specific items added automatically when relevant):

• Anchoring system (windlass, chain, anchor)

• Mooring cleats and fairleads

• Fenders, lines, bollards

• Swim ladder and safety rails

• Deck hatches & ventilation

For sailboats:

• Standing rigging (visual)

• Running rigging

• Mast, boom, chainplates

• Sail condition (UV, stitching, material wear)

Objective: Establish equipment value and identify any needed wear or replacements.

7. Deck Gear, Hardware & Fittings

9. Berth Trial

Universal safety inspection includes:

• Liferaft (if installed)

• Fire extinguishers

• EPIRB (if fitted)

• Flares & signalling devices

• Bilge pumps

• Navigation lights

• Personal flotation devices

Objective: Ensure compliance with minimum safety requirements and evaluate replacement cost.

When conditions allow, a berth trial may be conducted:

• Engine running test (disengaged)

• Handling, steering,

• Vibration & noise levels (at low regimes)

• Electronic systems under load

Objective: Validate operational condition and identify defects not visible ashore.

Boat Appraisal Surveys

Visual highlights from our detailed boat appraisal process.