Survey and sea trial: how it works, who pays, what happens next

The survey and the sea trial test the boat. The buyer normally orders and pays for them, and the results decide the next step.

Updated 24 Oct 2026 2 min read

Key points

The buyer normally pays for the survey and the haul-out.
The surveyor works for you and sends you the report.
The sea trial usually follows the haul-out and takes a few hours.

The order of events

The agreement is signed and the deposit paid. See Making an offer and the memorandum of agreement.
You choose a surveyor and book a date. Yard slots fill up in spring.
The boat is hauled out and the surveyor inspects the hull and running gear. See The haul-out checklist and running gear.
The boat goes back in the water for the rig, systems and engine checks.
A sea trial tests the boat under power and sail. See The sea trial checklist.
The surveyor sends a written report, often within a few days.

Who pays

Surveyor: the buyer.
Haul-out, yard time and relaunch: normally the buyer. Some agreements split it or return it if the buyer proceeds. Settle it in the agreement.
Fuel and berth for the sea trial: agree it in advance.
Repairs the survey finds: a matter for negotiation. See Post-survey renegotiation: reduce, repair or walk away.

Who attends

The surveyor, the buyer or a representative, the broker, a mechanic if you arrange one, and the seller or someone who knows the boat. Let the surveyor work without commentary. Stay out of the way and ask questions at the end.

Choose your own surveyor

Ask the surveyor about their qualifications, insurance and experience with this type of boat. Ask for a sample report. See Why you need your own pre-purchase survey and What a survey includes, and what a surveyor does not inspect.

What happens next

You read the report with the surveyor, and the findings fall into three groups: safety issues, major repairs, and wear items. Then you accept the boat, ask for a lower price or repairs, or withdraw. See How to read a survey report and cost the findings and Post-survey renegotiation: reduce, repair or walk away.

Deadlines

The agreement sets a date by which you must accept or reject. Book the survey the same week you sign. A missed deadline can put your deposit at risk.

Also useful at step 5 Why you need your own pre-purchase survey

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change; check your own case with a professional or ask us.