Before you buy a boat, know what you're buying.
A boat may look beautiful on the outside, but a qualified marine surveyor evaluates the systems and structural components that determine whether it is safe, seaworthy for its intended use, and worth the asking price.
A marine survey is not just an inspection. It is an investment in your safety, your financial protection, and your peace of mind.
How BoatMax™ Makes the Difference
Two things set a BoatMax survey apart from a typical pre-purchase inspection.
A Very Accurate Valuation
Your survey is performed by a SAMS-accredited surveyor who uses a proprietary calculation method to arrive at an accurate value — not a guess, not a comparison of asking prices, but a documented number you can rely on when you make your offer.
Accepted for Finance and Insurance
The same survey can be used to satisfy your lender and your insurance carrier, so you are not paying for a second inspection later. One report, one set of answers, one clear path to closing.
15 Important Reasons to Get a Marine Survey Before Purchasing a Boat
What a qualified surveyor looks at, and why each item protects your money.
Structural Integrity
Identify hull cracks, fiberglass delamination, damaged stringers, bulkheads, and transoms.
Moisture and Water Intrusion
Detect hidden leaks, water damage, soft spots, and deteriorating core materials.
Engine and Mechanical Systems
Evaluate engine condition, transmissions, cooling systems, exhaust systems, and potential mechanical problems.
Underwater Hull Inspection
Examine the keel, rudders, propellers, shafts, through-hull fittings, and signs of corrosion or damage.
Electrical Systems
Identify unsafe wiring, battery problems, faulty connections, and potential fire hazards.
Safety Equipment
Verify the condition and operation of essential safety equipment and applicable USCG requirements.
Fuel Systems
Inspect fuel tanks, hoses, connections, ventilation, and possible fuel leaks.
Steering and Navigation Systems
Assess steering components, controls, navigation electronics, and communication equipment.
Sea Trial Performance
Evaluate engine operation under load, handling, vibrations, maneuverability, and overall performance.
Future Repair Costs
Identify deferred maintenance, deteriorating components, and potentially expensive repairs.
Fair Market Value
Determine whether the boat's condition and estimated market value justify the asking price.
Negotiation Advantage
Use documented deficiencies to negotiate repairs or a better purchase price.
Insurance Requirements
Obtain documentation that may be required to secure marine insurance coverage.
Financing Requirements
Provide lenders with an independent evaluation of the vessel's condition and value.
Financial Protection and Peace of Mind
Reduce the risk of unexpected expenses, safety concerns, and purchasing a vessel with serious hidden defects.
Before you buy a boat, know what you're buying.
We will walk you through the survey, the findings, and what they mean for your offer — so the boat you fall in love with is the boat you actually get.