Sailboat Condition Survey Checklist

Below is a detailed, comprehensive checklist that a potential sailboat buyer can use when surveying a vessel’s condition. This list is designed to guide you through every major system and component—from the hull right through to the onboard systems—ensuring you don’t miss any critical issues. I have structured the checklist into clear sections, added tabular summaries and even an ASCII flowchart of the overall survey process.

1. Hull & Structural Integrity

Hull Material & Construction:

• Verify whether the hull is fiberglass, wood, steel, or aluminum.
• Inspect for cracks, blisters, and signs of delamination or rot (in wood).

Gelcoat & Fairing:

• Check for surface imperfections such as chipping, crazing, or discoloration.

Bulkheads & Structural

• Look for water intrusion, soft spots, or signs of past repair work.
• Inspect internal frames and support structures for corrosion or fatigue.

Keel, Rudder, & Transom:

• Examine for impact damage, pitting, or any visible deterioration.
• Ensure proper alignment and that any repairs have been done to industry standards.

2. Deck, Superstructure & Interior Structure

Deck & Companionway:

• Inspect deck fittings including cleats, winches, hatches, and the companionway for damage or excessive wear.
• Look for signs of water infiltration (damp spots, blistering) and delamination under the deck surface.

Railings & Handholds:

• Check metal components for corrosion, cracks, and secure mounting.

Internal Supports & Bulkheads:

• Verify that interior bulkheads and structural elements are free from rot, leaks, or mold.

3. Rigging & Sails

Standing Rigging:

• Evaluate the mast, shrouds, and stays for corrosion, broken strands, and proper tension.
• Verify that any hardware (turnbuckles, spreaders) is intact.

Running Rigging:

• Check halyards, sheets, and chafe lines for fraying, discoloration, or wear.

Sails:

• Inspect sails for repairs, seam integrity, UV damage, and overall fabric wear.
• Examine battens, grommets, and other fittings for secure attachment and absence of rust or corrosion.

Mast & Boom:

• Look along the mast for any signs of bending, dents, or water spots that might indicate internal damage.
• Confirm that the boom is securely attached and free of corrosion.

4. Engine & Mechanical Systems

Engine Condition:

• Check engine hours and review maintenance records if available.
• Look for oil or fluid leaks, corrosion, and assess the condition of engine mounts.

Ancillary Systems:

• Inspect exhaust systems for proper venting and signs of blockage or leaks.
• Evaluate fuel lines, filters, and tanks for degradation or contamination.

Bilge & Pumping Systems:

• Verify that bilge pumps are operational and the bilge is free from chronic water accumulation or debris.

5. Electrical & Instrumentation Systems

Battery & Charging Systems:

• Assess battery condition, connection quality, and any signs of corrosion.

Wiring & Distribution:

• Check that wiring, circuit breakers, and fuses are intact, correctly rated, and not showing signs of wear.

Navigation & Electronics:

• Test operation of GPS, AIS, radar, radio, and autopilot systems.
• Confirm that instrument displays (e.g., engine monitors, depth sounders) are well-calibrated and functioning.

Lighting & Indicators:

• Ensure all interior/exterior lights and alarm indicators are operational.

6. Plumbing & Freshwater Systems

Water Tanks & Pumps:

• Inspect for leaks, algae build-up, and proper pump operation.

Plumbing Components:

• Evaluate hoses, fittings, and connections for any signs of wear or corrosion.

Sanitation Systems:

• Confirm that the onboard head, holding tanks, and any treatment systems function properly.

7. Safety Equipment & Accessories

Personal Safety Gear:

• Verify that life jackets, harnesses, and other personal equipment are present, in good condition, and not expired.

Emergency Equipment:

• Check fire extinguishers, flares, EPIRB, and first aid kits for current certification/expiration dates.

Anchoring & Mooring Gear:

• Evaluate the condition of the anchor, chain, and windlass as well as dock lines and cleats.

8. Documentation & History

Maintenance Records:

• Request and review service records, pre-purchase survey reports, and any modification history.

Ownership & Insurance:

• Verify that all registration, title, and insurance documents are in order.

Prior Repairs & Upgrades:

• Note any significant repairs or modifications, confirming they were carried out professionally.

9. Sea Trial & Performance Testing

Engine & Mechanical:

• Run the engine to check for smooth acceleration, proper idling, and unusual noises or vibrations.

Rigging & Sails:

• Test sail handling under load and verify that the boat tracks straight during manoeuvrers.

Steering & Handling:

• Assess the responsiveness of the rudder and steering system under different conditions.

Onboard Systems:

• Test electrical systems, navigation equipment, and onboard pumps while underway.

Inspection Summary Table

The Sailboat Condition Survey Report

With your Survey Report completed along the lines of this checklist, you can use it to negotiate the lowest possible price for your next sailboat...

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I wrote this article using GPT-4, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model, as a research assistant to gather information, summarize research findings, and provide suggestions for the content and structure of the article.

Dick McClary, creator and owner of sailboat-cruising.com

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