Pre-Purchase Yacht Surveys

Independent Yacht Inspection Before You Buy

A pre-purchase yacht survey is the most important step you can take before buying a boat. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced sailor, an independent survey by a qualified professional gives you an accurate picture of the vessel's true condition — and can save you from a costly mistake. At Ardenna Yacht Surveys, we carry out thorough pre-purchase surveys across the South West and South Coast of England and Wales, from Falmouth to Southampton and beyond.

What Does a Pre-Purchase Yacht Survey Involve?

A pre-purchase survey - sometimes called a 'buyer's survey' - is a comprehensive examination of the yacht's hull, structure, deck, rigging, engine, bilge, electrical systems, sails and safety equipment. The aim is to identify any defects, areas of wear, osmotic blistering, structural weakness or safety concerns before the sale is agreed.

Simon Ransome-Williams holds a BSc (Hons) in Naval Architecture from Southampton University and has hands-on experience as a yacht builder, yacht broker and professional sailor. His reports are detailed, clearly written and designed to be genuinely useful — not just a formality.

Why You Need an Independent Survey

What the Survey Report Covers

Survey Area — South West England and South Wales

We are based in Lyme Regis, Dorset, and cover most of the South West and South Coast of England and Wales. Our survey area includes marinas and boatyards from Falmouth and Plymouth in the west, through Dartmouth, Brixham, Torquay, Exmouth, Weymouth, Poole, Lymington and Southampton to the east, and the South Wales coast including Cardiff, Newport and Swansea.

When you are spending thousands of pounds on a yacht, you need advice from someone who is working for you, not the seller. An independent surveyor has no financial interest in the sale proceeding and will give you an honest, objective assessment of the vessel.

A survey report can also be used to renegotiate the purchase price if significant defects are found, and most marine insurers will require a survey for boats over a certain age or value before offering cover.

• Hull and deck condition, including moisture readings and osmosis check

• Structural integrity of keel, rudder and chainplates

• Standing and running rigging assessment

• Engine and mechanical systems inspection

• Electrical systems and safety equipment review

• Sails, spars and associated deck hardware

• Bilge inspection and through-hull fittings

• Recommendations and repair priorities

To arrange a pre-purchase survey, simply get in touch by calling 07879 405117 or by emailing simon@ardenna-yachtsurveys.co.uk, or by clicking the button below and sending us an enquiry through our contact from. We will discuss your requirements, provide a competitive quote and arrange a convenient time to inspect the vessel - usually while it is ashore or in a suitable berth.

How to Book a Pre-Purchase Survey