Frequent Questions

We understand that requesting marine survey or boat inspection can sometimes be overwhelming when dealing with marine technical data etc. We have done our best to list some of the most common questions and answers below.

• How long does a marine survey take?

  To carrying out a survey or inspection, there are a few steps involved which include: + Pre-inspection vessel, research, history and review. + Confirmation of vessel location and lift out etc. + Travel to and from vessel location + Physical vessel inspection + Sea Trial (if requested) + Report preparation and writing. On average, a survey will take 6-8 hours to complete. This can be higher or lower depending the on the vessels size and location. The actual physical inspection typically takes between 2-4 hours depending on the vessels size and the number of engines.

• Can I request a copy a sample survey?

  Of course! We have various different sample surveys on file so that you understand how they a written and the information that is reported. Please contact us suggesting the type of vessel surveyed, so that we can send a report that best suits your requirements.

• How much does a survey cost?

  The cost of a boat inspection or survey varies depending on the type of survey required. Please refer to our list of services or contact us to confirm the survey fee. Standard boat inspections are our basic service for trailer boats and generally start at $330.00 while our comprehensive marine surveys range on average between $660.00 - $1,200.00.

• Are you a qualified marine surveyor?

  Principal surveyor - Josh Deacon is a trade qualified boat/builder/shipwright with tertiary qualifications in Marine Surveying while accredited with industry peak body Australian Institue of Marine Surveyors.

• What areas do you service?

  Our main service area covers all suburbs of Greater Melbourne which includes Geelong and both Penisulsa's all-around Port Phillip Bay as well as all Yacht Clubs and Marinas. That said, we are prepared to travel wherever the vessel is located across the state of Victoria, Australia or around the globe.

• What type of marine surveys do you offer?

  We provide a range of professional marine survey and inspection services, including: Pre-Purchase Marine Surveys Insurance Risk Marine Surveys Pre-Purchase Trailer Boat Inspections Pre-Purchase Sailboat / Keelboat Surveys Condition & Valuation Surveys If you’re not sure which survey is right for your vessel, simply contact us or complete our quote form and we can recommend the most suitable option.

• What is a pre-purchase marine survey?

  A pre-purchase marine survey is an independent inspection of a vessel’s condition carried out before purchase. The purpose of the survey is to help identify observable defects, maintenance concerns, safety-related issues, and condition items that may affect the vessel’s value, seaworthiness, or future ownership costs. It is one of the most important steps you can take before buying a boat or vessel.

• Why should I get a pre-purchase survey before buying a boat?

  A boat may look well presented at first glance, but hidden or less obvious issues can still exist. A professional pre-purchase survey can help identify: Structural defects Moisture or water ingress issues Mechanical or propulsion concerns Electrical faults Safety-related issues Signs of corrosion, wear, or poor repairs Maintenance items that may lead to future costs A survey helps you make a more informed decision before settlement and can reduce the risk of expensive surprises after purchase.

• Do you inspect trailer boats as well as larger vessels?

  es. We inspect a wide range of vessels, including: Trailer boats Runabouts and fishing boats Bowriders and cuddy cabins Powerboats and cruisers Sailboats and keelboats Larger recreational vessels Selected commercial vessels We can tailor the inspection scope depending on the type of vessel and your requirements.

• Do you inspect the trailer as part of a trailer boat survey?

  Yes — for trailer boat inspections, we can provide a general visual assessment of the boat, outboard motor, and trailer. This may include a review of the trailer frame, coupling, winch, suspension, rollers / skids, visible condition, and general signs of wear, corrosion, or deferred maintenance.

• Do you inspect outboard motors?

  Yes. For trailer boats and vessels fitted with outboards, we can provide a visual and limited operational inspection of the outboard motor where access and safe operating conditions allow. This may include: External condition Mounting arrangement Gearcase and propeller Steering and trim / tilt Engine start and run check (where suitable water supply is available) Engine Scan report Relative engine compression data Unless specifically arranged, this is not a dismantling inspection and does not determine the internal condition or future reliability of the engine.

• Do you perform sea trials?

  Sea trials are not included unless specifically arranged or quoted. Where requested, a sea trial may be available depending on the vessel, location, and inspection scope. If you would like a sea trial included, simply let us know when requesting your quote.

• Do you inspect sailboats and keelboats?

  Yes. We provide pre-purchase surveys for sailboats, yachts, and keelboats. These inspections may include hull, deck, accessible structural areas, keel attachment areas, rudder and steering, auxiliary engine, and a deck-level inspection of mast, boom, standing rigging, running rigging, and deck hardware. Unless specifically arranged, mast climbing, rig disassembly, and specialist rigging certification are not included.

• How long does a marine survey take?

  Survey duration depends on the type, size, and condition of the vessel, as well as whether additional services such as a sea trial or haul-out are included. As a general guide: Trailer boats and smaller vessels: often a few hours Larger recreational vessels: longer depending on complexity Sailboats and larger cruisers: may require additional time depending on scope We can provide a better estimate when preparing your quote.

• How long does it take to receive the report?

  In most cases, reports are provided within 24–48 hours of the inspection, depending on vessel size, scope, and scheduling. For some smaller inspections, same-day reporting may be possible.

• What areas do you service?

  Deaspec Marine Surveying is based in Melbourne, Victoria, and services a wide range of locations across Victoria and surrounding areas, depending on vessel type and inspection requirements. If you’re unsure whether we service your location, simply send through the vessel details and location via our quote form.

• What is an insurance risk survey?

  An insurance risk survey is a professional inspection carried out for insurance renewal, ongoing cover, or insurer risk assessment purposes. It provides an independent assessment of the vessel’s present condition, general maintenance standard, and observable risk items at the time of inspection.

• What is a condition and valuation survey?

  A condition and valuation survey provides: A professional assessment of the vessel’s general condition, and An informed opinion of the vessel’s market value based on age, condition, equipment, and available market information These surveys are commonly used for finance, insurance, pre-sale, ownership records, and asset reporting.

• What does a marine survey not include?

  Unless specifically arranged, a marine survey generally does not include: Dismantling or removal of fixed panels or components Inspection of concealed or inaccessible areas Destructive testing Internal engine or gearbox inspection Full compliance certification of electrical, gas, or safety systems Mast climbing or rig disassembly (for sailboats) Sea trial (unless specifically quoted) Haul-out (unless specifically arranged) The survey reflects the vessel’s condition at the time of inspection only and is not a warranty or guarantee.

• How do I request a quote?

  The easiest way is to complete our online Get a Quote form. Provide the vessel type, make / model, location, and the type of survey you require, and we’ll respond with a tailored quotation and the most suitable inspection options.

• Still Have Questions?

  If you’re unsure which survey is right for your vessel, simply complete our quote form and we’ll recommend the most suitable option.