— PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION
Vessel Inspection Checklist
A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection checklist tailored to your vessel type. Check items on-screen or download as a branded PDF.
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— QUESTIONS
Frequently asked
A pre-purchase vessel inspection should cover hull and structure, engine and machinery, electrical systems, navigation and communications, safety equipment, deck and rigging, accommodation, and all documentation including certificates, registration, and survey history. The specific items depend on the vessel type — offshore supply vessels, fishing vessels, and sailing yachts each have additional specialised checks.
Yes, we strongly recommend engaging a qualified marine surveyor for any vessel purchase. A pre-purchase checklist helps you prepare and identify obvious issues, but a professional surveyor has the expertise and equipment to detect hidden problems such as hull thickness loss, engine wear, and structural fatigue.
Essential documents include the Certificate of Registry, class certificates, flag state inspection certificates, ownership documentation and bill of sale chain, lien and mortgage search results, insurance records, survey reports from the last 3 years, and engine and equipment service records. For commercial vessels, also verify ISM/DOC/SMC certificates, the International Tonnage Certificate, and the Minimum Safe Manning Certificate.
A hull inspection should cover general condition (corrosion, dents, cracks), hull plating thickness measurements via ultrasonic testing, keel and bottom condition, anodes, rudder and steering gear, propeller shaft and propeller, through-hull fittings and sea valves, and welding quality. For vessels over 15 years old, pay extra attention to corrosion and structural integrity.
A sea trial should be a minimum of 20 minutes at cruising RPM. Monitor engine temperatures and pressures, check for unusual smoke, sound, or vibration. Test steering, navigation equipment, and communication systems underway. A cold start is most revealing for engine condition. A sea trial is considered non-negotiable for any serious vessel purchase.
Yes, the Global Marine Platform vessel inspection checklist is completely free. You can use it interactively on-screen to check off items, and download it as a professionally formatted PDF — either blank for use during your inspection, or with your progress saved.