There are numerous reasons for having a boat or yacht inspected by a qualified marine surveyor. In the case of the purchase of a second-hand yacht, you will want assurance that the particular boat you have made an offer on is suitable for the purpose that you intend and that the need for any refit work has been identified.
With hundreds of boats located all over the world, it’s difficult for buyers to concentrate on one boat based on a listing brochure and a few pictures. A Cat-Chek is a preliminary inspection conducted by an independent and objective marine surveyor that goes over the main systems of the vessel and reports the general condition of the boat and its systems. A Cat-Chek validates the listing description and gives buyers the confidence to move forward in the buying process.
While the Cat-Chek does not substitute for a full survey, all parties involved should feel comfortable knowing that the boat has been inspected and that the boat is in an overall acceptable condition. Based on the findings of the Cat-Chek, the seller can also determine if further attention is needed on some areas of the boat and what areas of the boat to highlight.
During the inspection process, the surveyor goes over the main systems of the boat and reports the overall condition and any readily noticeable deficiencies. The actual report has 4 main components: The first component is the actual text of the report. The text is brief. However, it is focused and to the point. It includes an easy to understand rating system as well as a description of each system. The second component is pictures. The pictures are used to illustrate the appearance of the boat the day of the inspection.
Many boats have pictures that are dated or use stock photography. A Cat-Chek includes pictures of the exact boat at the time of inspection.
The third component of a Cat-Chek is a dynamic video walkthrough of the boat. The video is able to illustrate the layout and overall appearance. The video compliments the pictures since the pictures can get confusing with multiple cabins and accommodations spaces. The video is the next best thing to actually being on the boat.
The fourth component is the ability for both the buyer and seller to interact one-on-one with the surveyor who inspected the boat. The surveyor may be able to provide valuable insight to the boat. The surveyor doesn’t take the place of the broker. However, they are able to work together to provide the most accurate and trustworthy information about the boat.
- Hull, Deck and Superstructure
- Cabin Interior
- Propulsion
- Electrical
- Freshwater
- Sanitation
- Steering
- Ground Tackle
- Electronics
- Safety Equipment
- Sailing Gear
Surveyors are very knowledgeable people and if sensibly used will provide a huge amount of priceless advice at modest cost compared to the investment you are to make in a new or second-hand yacht. Whilst they can be used for an Insurance appraisal of a yacht they are best used to give you a full structural and condition survey for your yacht. If nothing else it tells you the truth about your yacht and gives an indication of what needs to be done to bring her up to scratch. Contact us today to arrange a Cat-Chek on a listing that's caught your eye.
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