Marine Surveys in Greece: Why Every Yacht Buyer in the Ionian Needs a Professional Surveyor

If you’re planning to buy a yacht in Greece, especially around Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio or Nidri, a full condition survey is one of the most important steps you can take. The Ionian has become one of Europe’s busiest yacht-buying regions, with hundreds of monohulls, catamarans and ex-charter boats changing hands every season. With such variation in maintenance, age and charter history, a professional marine survey gives you the clarity you need before committing to your purchase.

Why a Marine Survey is Critical in the Ionian Region

The Mediterranean climate is stunning, but tough on boats. UV exposure, high temperatures and long periods afloat create predictable patterns of wear. Across daily surveys in the Ionian, I regularly uncover:

• Osmosis and elevated hull moisture
• Worn or seized seacocks
• UV-damaged standing and running rigging
• Structural movement around bulkheads and chainplates
• Rudder play and steering wear
• Outdated electrical installations
• Engines suffering from long charter seasons or prolonged lay-ups
• Leaking hatches, portlights and delaminated deck sections

These issues often remain hidden during a viewing. A full inspection brings everything into the open, helping you avoid costly repairs later.

Experienced Local Marine Surveyor Based in Greece

With over 30 years’ experience and thousands of inspections completed, I carry out marine surveys throughout:

Preveza • Cleopatra Marina • Aktio • Ionion Marine • Lefkas Marina • Nidri • Vlycho Bay • Paleros • Astakos

Working locally means fast availability, efficient haul-out scheduling and an in-depth understanding of how Ionian conditions affect GRP hulls, teak decks, rigging, engines and onboard systems.

Recent Yachts Surveyed in the Ionian

Here are 10 of the most recent surveys I’ve completed across the region:

1. Southerly 42 RST “Stellendam” – full pre-purchase condition survey, Aktio

2. Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 “Aurora” – pre-purchase survey and valuation, Lefkas

3. Bavaria 40 “Elysia” – detailed condition survey with maintenance history review, Ionion Marine

4. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45 – pre-purchase survey, Cleopatra Marina

5. Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 – full survey including AC system testing, Lefkada

6. Grand Soleil 43 – pre-contract inspection for UK buyers, Cleopatra

7. Bavaria Cruiser 39 – insurance survey, Preveza Marina

8. Hallberg-Rassy 41 – valuation and structural inspection, Aktio

9. Lagoon 42 – rig inspection, osmosis check and system test, Lefkas Marina

10. Moody 425 – full survey and sea trial, Nidri & Vlycho

Including recent surveys shows buyers that I am actively inspecting yachts of all types across the Ionian and have current, real-world experience with local vessels.

What a Full Pre-Purchase Survey Includes

All surveys follow the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) Codes of Practice and include:

• Hull structure and moisture readings
• Keel, rudder, steering and underwater fittings
• Deck, coachroof and internal stiffening
• Mast, rigging and sails
• Engine installation and propulsion gear
• Electrical, gas and plumbing systems
• Safety equipment and navigation electronics
• Bilge systems and pumps
• Photographs, findings, recommendations and a market valuation

Reports are written clearly and factually, supporting negotiations and insurance needs.

Additional Specialist Services

• Insurance surveys
• Valuation reports
• Sea trials
• RigEye™ drone rig inspections
• Osmosis and moisture investigations
• Damage surveys
• End-of-season condition checks

Why Choose a Local Ionian Surveyor

• Immediate availability in local marinas
• Independent, unbiased reporting
• Close relationships with boatyards and brokers
• Detailed knowledge of local vessel issues
• Clear recommendations with priority ratings
• Reports trusted internationally by insurers and brokers

Book a Survey in Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio or Nidri

If you’re buying, selling or insuring a yacht in the Ionian, I’d be pleased to assist. I cover all nearby marinas and can normally arrange inspections at short notice.

Steven Truss – Marine Surveyor (AffIIMS)
Yacht Surveys Greece
www.yachtsurveysgreece.com
steventruss1@aol.com