How long does a marine survey take?

A typical 35 to 50 ft pre-purchase survey runs 4 to 6 hours on site, plus a sea trial. Reports are generally delivered within 24 to 72 hours after the inspection.

Is a sea trial included?

A sea trial is strongly recommended for pre-purchase surveys and can be coordinated with the seller and broker. Jack attends the sea trial as part of the survey.

How fast can I get an insurance survey?

Typically within a few days in the Fort Lauderdale and South Florida area. Call 954-247-8338 directly for urgent turnarounds.

What is a damage survey?

An independent inspection following a loss incident such as grounding, fire, flooding, collision, lightning, or sinking. Reports are written in the structure and language insurers and claims examiners expect.

FAQ

Marine Survey FAQ

Q: How much does a marine survey cost?

Pricing is typically calculated based on vessel length, with a 31-foot minimum. The exact price per foot varies depending on the type and size of the boat and the scope of survey required. Contact us at 954-247-8338 for a detailed quote.

Q: Do I need to haul the boat out?

Yes. A proper pre-purchase survey requires a short haul so the bottom, running gear, and through-hulls can be inspected. The buyer typically pays the yard haul fee directly.

Q: What is an insurance (C&V) survey?

A Condition and Valuation survey, required by most marine insurers for policy binding or renewal. It documents the vessel's condition and current fair market value.

Answers to the questions Jack gets asked most often.

What is a marine survey?

A marine survey is an independent professional inspection of a vessel’s condition, systems, and fair market value. It produces a written report used by buyers, insurers, lenders, and owners to make key decisions.

Do I need a marine survey?

If you’re buying a boat, financing one, or insuring one, yes. Lenders and insurers universally require a current survey. Even cash buyers benefit: the survey typically pays for itself many times over in negotiated repairs.

How much does a marine survey cost?

The pricing for a marine survey is typically calculated based on the length of the vessel, with a 35-foot minimum. The exact price per foot can vary depending on factors such as the type and size of the boat, as well as the specific scope and type of survey required.

For a detailed quote tailored to the vessel you would like surveyed, please contact us directly. We’d be happy to provide you with a quote based on your boat’s unique needs and the services you require.

What does a pre-purchase survey cover?

Hull and structure (in and out of the water), deck and superstructure, electrical AC/DC systems, plumbing, fuel, propulsion, steering, safety gear, electronics, and a market value opinion. See the pre-purchase survey page for the full scope.

Do I need to haul the boat out?

Yes, a proper pre-purchase survey requires a short haul so the bottom, running gear, and through-hulls can be inspected. The buyer typically pays the yard haul fee directly.

Who pays for the survey?

In a typical used-boat transaction the buyer pays for the survey, the haul-out, and any sea trial fuel. The seller provides access to the vessel.

What's an insurance (C&V) survey?

A Condition & Valuation survey, required by most marine insurers for policy binding or renewal. It documents the vessel’s condition and current fair market value. See insurance surveys.

What's a damage survey?

An independent inspection following a loss incident (grounding, fire, flooding, collision, lightning, sinking). Reports are written in the structure and language insurers and claims examiners expect. See damage surveys.

Are you certified?

SAMS® Surveyor Associate, ACMS MS, ABYC Certified Marine Electrician, ABYC Certified Marine Standards, Chapman School of Seamanship graduate, IAMI member, USCG 100-ton Master, and Florida all-lines licensed insurance adjuster. Full list on the credentials page.

Where do you work?

Fort Lauderdale home base, serving Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, and Martin counties regularly. Travel throughout Florida and the U.S. East Coast is available for larger jobs. See service areas.

How do I schedule?

Call 954-247-8338 (voice only, no text), email info@clayton-marine-surveys.com, or request a survey online. Include the vessel make, model, length, location, and type of survey needed.