“Insurance companies may reject claims for boats affected by defects that should have been corrected during routine maintenance” – GJW
This is an out-of-water survey that concentrates on the hull of the boat below the gunwales. The same inspection and checking techniques are used as the Full Condition Inspection and include:
- Principal hull dimensions and freeboard measurement (except air draught)
- Ultrasonic and hammer test of hull plating
- Corrosion and damage assessment, including pitting
- Cathodic protection inspection
- Propeller and rudder check (shaft removal is not part of the standard inspection)
- Protective coating condition check (below the waterline)
- Through hull fittings and deck condition check
The survey is supported by a comprehensive condition report that includes recommendations, suggestions, and advisory comments to support repair planning.
Important Advice: Some insurance companies now require a copy of a full out-of-water inspection report for older vessels e.g. older than 30 years. You should check their exact requirements before commissioning a survey. A hull survey may cost less but it may not be sufficient to meet your insurance company’s requirements and you may end up paying twice.

