Exclusive Guide 2026
The essential guide for family offices, investors and luxury yacht owners
50
Critical Points
30+
Years Experience
1,500+
Inspections
Why Do You Need This Checklist?
In my more than 30 years of international naval expertise, I have inspected more than 1,500 yachts in 40 countries. I have seen how Family Offices and investors lose millions of euros by not identifying critical defects during the inspection.
This checklist is the result of decades of experience. They are the50 points that you should NEVER overlookwhen inspecting a yacht, organized into 7 critical categories.
💡 Key Data
78% of second-hand yachts have at least 3 critical defects that are not detected in a superficial inspection. These defects can cost between €100,000 and €5,000,000 in repairs.
How to Use This Checklist
This checklist is designed to be used during the physical inspection of the yacht. I recommend:
- Print the final version(pages 10-12) to take on board
- Mark each pointas you inspect it
- Take picturesof any anomaly
- Document everythingin the notes section
- Hire a certified expertfor a professional inspection
⚠️ Important Warning
This checklist is an educational guide. It does not replace professional inspection by a certified expert (SAMS, NAMS or IIMS). A professional inspection includes non-destructive testing, laboratory analysis and legally valid documentation.
01
Property Title and Registration
Verify that the property title is free of encumbrances, mortgages or embargoes. Check that the owner's name matches the official record.
02
Classification Certificate
Review the certificate from the classification society (Lloyd's, DNV, ABS, RINA). Verify that it is current and without pending conditions.
03
Maintenance History
Request the complete maintenance book. Verify that services have been performed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
04
Claim History
Investigate whether the yacht has suffered accidents, fires, groundings or floods. Request reports of repairs carried out.
05
Statutory Certificates
Verify SOLAS, MARPOL, IAPP, IOPP, etc. certificates. Check that they are current and comply with international regulations.
06
Plans and Specifications
Request original shipyard plans (as-built). Verify that there are no unauthorized modifications to the plans.
07
Actual Engine Hours
Verify the operating hours of main engines and generators. Compare with maintenance history.
08
Insurance and Policies
Review current insurance policies (hull, machines, P&I). Check coverage, exclusions and claims history.
🔍 Expert Advice
If the seller cannot provide all the requested documentation, that is a red flag. A well-maintained yacht has complete and organized documentation.
09
Visual Hull Inspection
10
Thickness Measurement
Perform hull thickness measurements with ultrasound. Compare with the original shipyard thicknesses.
11
Weld Inspection
On steel/aluminum yachts, inspect welds with penetrating dyes or magnetic particles. Look for microcracks.
12
Cathodic Protection System
Check the status of the sacrificial anodes or the ICCP system. Check that they work correctly.
13
Keel and daggerboards
Inspect the keel for damage, corrosion or repairs. Check the ballast system (if applicable).
14
Rudder and Steering System
Check the condition of the rudder, blades, hinges and steering system. Check for clearances and excessive play.
15
Propellers and Shafts
Inspect propellers for cavitation, damage or repairs. Check the condition of the axles and their seals.
16
Handrails and handrails
Check the solidity of handrails, railings and attachment points. Verify that they comply with safety regulations.
17
Hatches and Covers
Check the tightness of hatches, manhole covers and access to the hull. Check joints and closures.
18
Paint and Antifouling
Evaluate the condition of the paint system. Check the antifouling and the interval since the last application.
⚠️ Critical Point
The hull inspection must be carried out with the yacht out of the water (in a slipway). A superficial inspection from the water is NOT sufficient to detect structural defects.
19
Main Engines – Visual Inspection
Examine engines for oil, fuel or coolant leaks. Check the general condition and cleanliness.
20
Engine Oil Analysis
Take oil samples for laboratory analysis. Detect wear metals, fuel or water contamination.
21
Refrigeration system
Inspect heat exchangers, water pumps, thermostats and hoses. Check absence of corrosion.
22
Exhaust System
Examine manifolds, turbochargers, mufflers and exhaust pipes. Look for signs of corrosion or leaks.
23
Fuel System
Inspect tanks, pumps, filters and pipes. Check the absence of contaminants and water in the fuel.
24
Generators
Test generators under load. Check voltage, frequency, temperature and oil pressure.
25
Hydraulic System
Inspect hydraulic pumps, cylinders, hoses and connections. Check absence of leaks and correct pressure.
26
Air Conditioning System
Test air conditioning systems in all areas. Check compressors, evaporators and condensers.
27
Water System
Inspect water pumps, tanks, heaters and treatment systems. Check water pressure and quality.
28
Bilge System
Test bilge pumps (manual and automatic). Check water level in bilges and absence of leaks.
💰 Hidden Cost
Repair or replacement of a main engine can cost between €200,000 and €2,000,000 depending on the size of the yacht. A €300 oil analysis can detect problems before they become catastrophic.
29
Main Electrical Panels
Inspect electrical panels with infrared thermography. Detect hot spots, loose connections or overloads.
30
battery
Check condition, age and capacity of the batteries. Check connections and ventilation system.
31
Wiring and Connections
Inspect wiring for deterioration, loose connections or exposed wires. Check insulation.
32
Earth System
Measure resistance of the grounding system. Verify that it complies with safety regulations.
33
Protections and Circuit Breakers
Check that all circuits have adequate protections. Check circuit breaker calibration.
34
Lighting System
Test all lights (interior, exterior, navigation). Check operation of switches and dimmers.
35
Backup Power System
Test automatic transfer system between generator and network. Check UPS and emergency systems.
⚡ Fire Risk
35% of fires on yachts have electrical origin. A thermographic inspection can detect hot spots before they cause a fire. Inspection cost: €500-€1,500. Cost of a fire: €500,000 – €50,000,000.
36
Electronic Navigation System
Test radar, GPS, plotter, echo sounder, AIS and navigation systems. Verify calibration and operation.
37
Communication System
Test VHF, SSB, satellite (Inmarsat, Iridium) and GMDSS systems. Check DSC and EPIRB.
38
Security Equipment
Check life rafts, vests, lifebuoys, flares and safety equipment. Check expiration dates.
39
Fire Fighting System
Inspect fire extinguishers, fixed extinguishing system (CO2, water mist), smoke detectors and alarms.
40
Emergency Government System
Test emergency steering system (reserve rudder). Verify operation and accessibility.
41
Emergency Bilge System
Test emergency bilge pumps. Check flow and autonomy. Check manual operation.
42
Light and Acoustic Signals
Test navigation lights, signal lights and whistle. Verify that they comply with COLREG.
🛟 Safety First
Safety equipment expires. An expired life raft is not only illegal, it can cost you your life. Check all expiration dates before purchasing.
43
Interior Structure
Inspect bulkheads, fixed furniture and interior structure for movement, cracks or repairs.
44
Finishes and Carpentry
Evaluate quality of finishes, carpentry, upholstery and paint. Check general condition and maintenance.
45
Entertainment Systems
Test audio, video, TV, satellite and WiFi systems. Verify operation in all areas.
46
Kitchens and Service Areas
Inspect appliances, countertops, sinks and refrigeration systems. Check operation.
47
Bathrooms and Sanitary Systems
Test toilets, showers, sinks and sewage treatment systems. Check absence of leaks and odors.
✨ Luxury with Substance
Luxury finishes can hide structural defects. Don't be impressed by the aesthetics. A yacht can look perfect inside but have serious problems with the hull or systems.
48
Speed and Consumption Test
Perform tests at different RPM regimes. Measure maximum speed, cruising speed and fuel consumption.
49
Maneuverability Test
Test turns, emergency stops, reversing and maneuvers in port. Evaluate response of the government system.
50
Testing Systems Under Load
Test all systems simultaneously under maximum load. Check temperatures, pressures and voltages.
🌊 The Ultimate Test
Sea trials are MANDATORY. Many defects only manifest themselves when the yacht is in motion: vibrations, noises, overheating, leaks. Never buy a yacht without complete sea trials.
Do you need a Professional Inspection?
This checklist is an educational guide. For a professional inspection with legal validity, contact our team of SAMS, NAMS and IIMS certified experts.
Quick Inspection Checklist
Print these pages and bring them on board during the inspection.
Documentation (1-8)
Hull and Structure (9-18)
Mechanical Systems (19-28)
Electrical Systems (29-35)
Navigation and Security (36-42)
Additional Notes
Space for additional notes during inspection…
Inspection Summary
Total points inspected: _____ / 50
Compliant points: _____
Points with observations: _____
Non-compliant points: _____
General recommendation: ☐ APPROVED ☐ CONDITIONAL ☐ NOT APPROVED
Ready for your Next Inspection?
This checklist is just the beginning. For a professional inspection with non-destructive testing, laboratory analysis and legally valid documentation, trust the experts at Prop Trust Verified.
Strategy Session: €497
60 minutes with our Technical Director to plan your professional inspection. Includes personalized checklist and specific recommendations for your yacht.
Yacht Investment Masterclass: €497
Complete 4-hour course on investing in luxury yachts. Learn to evaluate opportunities, negotiate prices and avoid costly mistakes.
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