Outboard Boat Surveying

When I began surveying I created a worksheet to guide my inspection process. Over the years I have refined the list to ensure it remains relevant and incorporates various details I feel offer insight into the subject vessel during and after the survey. So much is seen and discussed during the survey process that it is nearly impossible to retain all of it making a well-organized detailed report invaluable.

In many cases trailers are also part of the process. Trailers seem simple enough but have several important attributes that should be evaluated along with other relevant details.

The Process

In most cases outboard boats will be on boat lifts or trailers. Trailer boat inspections can usually be completed while they rest on their trailer. Wet stored boats will need to be loaded on their trailers or taken to a facility where they can be hauled and put on a work rack. Same for lift kept boats that will have their engines compression tested.

Engine computer downloads can be performed at any time during the process.

Preferably most of the inspection is performed ahead of the trial-run to identify any features that require being afloat to test are identified. Any equipment that can be operated prior to getting underway will be checked to avoid distractions later. The vessel underbody will be inspected to ensure it is adequately cleaned.

During the trial-run or sea-trial depending on the proximity of the survey to open water and conditions at the time of the survey the vessel will be run through its paces to measure how it performs. Trial-runs also provide an opportunity to evaluate autopilots, battery charging, trim/tilt, trim tabs and other features.

Upon returning to the dock from the haul-out/trial-run the boat will be tied up and shore power restored if applicable. Fluid samples will be taken from the machinery if ordered then a meeting usually takes place to review what has occurred during the survey. After all that it is time to leave.

Reporting

My survey reports, and fluid analysis when that is part of my survey will usually be ready within two to three days after I return to my office. Sometimes travel adds a day to the process. I send several emails. One email with the survey findings (“The list”). Then the full report pdf and dropbox link to the survey photos. After that I make myself available to review and answer questions as needed.

Sample Surveys

Click for sample surveys:

Contender 31 Open 2004
Cutwater 248 Coupe 2022
Grady White 275 Freedom 2017