Looking for an English speaking qualified Marine Surveyor?

 As a professional marine surveyor, I pride myself on delivering impartial and objective reports. My goal is to provide my clients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their boats. Whether you are a potential buyer seeking an assessment before making a purchase or an owner requiring an evaluation for insurance purposes, I strive to deliver reliable and detailed survey reports.

In addition to conducting surveys, I also offer consultation services, providing advice and guidance on maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. I understand the importance of maintaining the safety and seaworthiness of vessels, and I am committed to assisting boat owners in preserving the longevity and value of their investments.

If you are in need of a marine survey inspection in Preveza or the surrounding areas, I am here to assist you. With my extensive experience and expertise, you can trust that your boat will be thoroughly evaluated, and you will receive a comprehensive report to aid you in making informed decisions.

Thank you for visiting my blog, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or require my services. I look forward to serving the boating community in Preveza and beyond, ensuring that your seafaring adventures are safe and enjoyable.

Setting Sail into Luxury: A Guide to Buying Your First Yacht in Greece!

Ahoy, aspiring sailors and luxury enthusiasts! If you've ever dreamed of cruising the Greek Islands in your very own yacht, it's time to turn that dream into a reality. Buying a yacht is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful consideration and planning. In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of purchasing your first yacht, helping you navigate the vast sea of options and make an informed decision. So, hoist the anchor, and let's set sail on this exciting journey!

1. Define Your Yachting Goals:

Before you dive into the world of yacht buying, it's essential to identify your goals and aspirations. Are you looking for a sleek and sporty yacht for thrilling adventures, or a spacious and luxurious vessel for leisurely cruises? Determining your primary usage, desired features, and the number of guests you'll typically entertain will help narrow down your options and ensure a yacht that perfectly suits your needs. 2. Establish Your Budget: Yachts come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and price points. It's crucial to set a realistic budget for your yacht purchase, considering not just the initial cost but also ongoing maintenance, crew salaries, insurance, fuel, and mooring fees. Keep in mind that additional expenses may include interior customization, equipment upgrades, and annual haul-outs for maintenance and repairs. 3. Research and Consult Experts: Immerse yourself in the world of yachting by conducting thorough research. Browse reputable yacht brokerage websites, attend boat shows, and read industry publications to familiarize yourself with different yacht models, builders, and market trends. It's also highly advisable to consult with experienced yacht brokers and naval architects who can provide valuable insights, help you understand the technical aspects, and guide you through the buying process. 4. Choose the Right Yacht: Selecting the perfect yacht involves evaluating various factors such as size, style, layout, performance, and amenities. Consider the number of cabins and bathrooms, the configuration of living spaces, the presence of a flybridge or sundeck, and the availability of onboard features like a swimming platform, jacuzzi, or entertainment systems. Take test sails on shortlisted yachts to get a feel for their handling and comfort levels. 5. Survey and Inspection: Once you've found a yacht that captures your heart, arrange for a professional survey and inspection. A thorough examination by a qualified marine surveyor will assess the yacht's condition, identify any structural or mechanical issues, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. The survey report will provide you with an accurate picture of the yacht's condition and help you make an informed decision.

6. Negotiation and Purchase: When it comes to negotiating the price, it's essential to rely on the expertise of your yacht broker. They can guide you through the negotiation process, ensure a fair deal, and assist in drafting a comprehensive purchase agreement. Be prepared for additional costs such as legal fees, registration fees, and taxes. Engaging a maritime attorney to review the contract can provide peace of mind. 7. Ownership and Enjoyment: Congratulations! You're now the proud owner of a luxury yacht. It's time to complete the paperwork, register your vessel, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Consider hiring a professional crew or engaging a reputable management company to handle day-to-day operations, maintenance, and crew management. Familiarize yourself with safety procedures, maintenance schedules, and insurance requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ownership experience. Conclusion:

In conclusion, a marine survey of your yacht is a critical step in ensuring safety, seaworthiness, and peace of mind. It helps identify potential issues, ensures compliance with safety standards, and provides an objective evaluation of your vessel. By prioritizing a marine survey, you can embark on your yachting adventures with confidence, knowing that your vessel is in the best possible condition to navigate the open waters.

Drop me an email to steventruss1@aol.com. I am based in Preveza!

Mono Hull vs. Twin Hull Yacht: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Introduction:

Choosing the perfect yacht involves various considerations, and one crucial decision is whether to opt for a mono hull or a twin hull design. Both designs have their distinct advantages and disadvantages, catering to different preferences and requirements. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of buying a mono hull or twin hull yacht, helping you make an informed decision.

Mono Hull Yacht: A mono hull, as the name suggests, features a single hull design. Here are the pros and cons of buying a mono hull yacht:

Pros:
1. Stability in rough seas: Mono hull yachts are known for their exceptional stability in rough waters. The deep keel and narrow shape of the hull enable better maneuverability and increased resistance to rolling, making them suitable for offshore cruising.
2. Enhanced sailing performance: Mono hulls are designed for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate the thrill of cutting through the water. They offer better upwind performance, allowing for increased sailing speeds and improved responsiveness.
3. Sleek and traditional aesthetics: Many yacht enthusiasts are drawn to the timeless elegance and classic design of mono hull yachts. Their sleek lines and graceful profiles exude sophistication and charm.

Cons:
1. Limited interior space: Mono hulls typically have less interior space compared to their twin hull counterparts. The narrow beam restricts cabin size and may result in reduced living areas and storage capacity.
2. Reduced stability at rest: While mono hulls excel in rough seas, they can be less stable at anchor or during slow-speed maneuvers. This can lead to more rolling and discomfort for those on board.
3. Shallow draft limitations: Mono hulls usually have a deeper draft, making them less suitable for cruising in shallow waters or exploring coastal areas with shallow depths.

Twin Hull (Catamaran) Yacht:
A twin hull, also known as a catamaran, features two parallel hulls connected by a bridge deck. Let's explore the pros and cons of buying a twin hull yacht:


Pros:
1. Spaciousness and comfort: Twin hull yachts offer significantly more interior and deck space compared to mono hulls. The wider beam allows for expansive living areas, larger cabins, and ample storage, making them ideal for long-term cruising or entertaining guests.
2. Stability at rest: Catamarans provide excellent stability at anchor or during slow speeds, thanks to their wide beam and two hulls. This feature ensures reduced rolling and increased comfort, especially for those prone to seasickness.
3. Shallow draft advantage: Catamarans typically have a shallower draft than mono hulls, enabling access to more secluded anchorages, remote coves, and shallow coastal areas.

Cons:
1. Reduced upwind performance: Catamarans generally have less upwind performance compared to mono hulls. Their wider beam can result in increased wind resistance, making sailing upwind less efficient and potentially requiring more tacking.
2. Limited maneuverability: Due to their wider beam and twin hull design, catamarans may be less maneuverable in tight spaces or crowded marinas. Extra caution and skill may be required during docking or mooring.
3. Higher initial costs: Twin hull yachts tend to have higher initial purchase costs compared to mono hulls of similar size and specifications. Maintenance and docking fees may also be higher due to the larger footprint.

Conclusion:
Deciding between a mono hull or twin hull yacht depends on your specific needs, preferences, and sailing aspirations. Mono hulls offer exceptional stability, sleek aesthetics, and enhanced sailing performance, while twin hulls provide spaciousness, stability at rest, and shallow draft advantages. Consider the trade-offs and prioritize your requirements to choose the yacht that aligns best with your boating lifestyle. 

Top 20 yacht survey tips!

When conducting a survey of a yacht, whether you are a buyer or a seller, it is important to thoroughly inspect and assess the vessel's condition. Here are ten top tips to consider during a yacht survey:

1. Hire a professional surveyor: Engage a qualified and experienced marine surveyor to conduct a thorough inspection of the yacht.

2. Research the surveyor: Ensure the surveyor is reputable, knowledgeable, and has expertise in yacht surveys.

3. Pre-survey documentation: Obtain and review all available documentation, including maintenance records, service history, and previous survey reports.

4. Conduct a sea trial: Request a sea trial to assess the yacht's performance, handling, and overall seaworthiness.

5. Inspect the hull: Check the hull for any signs of damage, cracks, or osmosis. Look for signs of repairs or patches.

6. Assess the deck and superstructure: Examine the deck and superstructure for any signs of leaks, delamination, or structural issues.

7. Inspect the rigging and sails: If the yacht has sails, assess their condition, and inspect the rigging for any signs of wear or damage.

8. Check the electrical systems: Test all electrical systems, including lights, electronics, and generators, to ensure they are in proper working order.

9. Inspect the plumbing system: Check all plumbing fixtures, including freshwater and sewage systems, for leaks or malfunctions.

10. Review the engine and propulsion system: Assess the engine's condition, check the oil levels, and examine the propulsion system for any signs of wear or damage.

11. Check the fuel system: Inspect the fuel tanks, lines, and filters for leaks, corrosion, or any other potential issues.

12. Assess the safety equipment: Ensure the yacht is equipped with appropriate safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and a functioning emergency radio.

13. Review the navigation equipment: Check the condition and functionality of the GPS, chartplotter, radar, and other navigation instruments.

14. Inspect the interior: Thoroughly examine the interior of the yacht, including the cabin, galley, and heads, for any signs of damage, mold, or leaks.

15. Check the upholstery and finishes: Assess the condition of upholstery, cushions, carpets, and finishes throughout the yacht.

16. Examine the hull fittings: Inspect the through-hull fittings, seacocks, and valves for corrosion, leaks, or damage.

17. Test the onboard systems: Test all onboard systems, including air conditioning, heating, refrigeration, and entertainment systems, to ensure they are functioning properly.

18. Evaluate the yacht's structural integrity: Look for any signs of stress or damage to the yacht's structure, bulkheads, and bulkhead attachments.

19. Consult insurance requirements: Check if the yacht meets the insurance requirements and if any modifications or repairs are necessary.

20. Review the survey report: Carefully review the survey report provided by the surveyor, and discuss any concerns or issues with them before making a decision.

Remember, a professional survey is crucial in assessing the condition of a yacht thoroughly. These tips can serve as a general guideline, but it's always recommended to consult with a qualified marine surveyor for a comprehensive assessment.

Todays Survey this Knysna 480 cruising catamaran. To save weight, the use of Airex foam coaring was used in the hulls, deck and bulkheads. Components are hand laid and vacuum bagged using isophthalic gelcoat and vinylester resin. A fiberglass grid set into the lower part of the hull helps accommodate rig and keel loads under sail, and supports cabinetry, the cabin sole and other below decks structures.

Layout gives four cabins outside the saloon with eight berths in total. The spacious interior provided comfortable, live-aboard facilities for extensive cruising.

 

On close inspection we found many cracks in the bulkheads around most of the door frames including the patio door into the main companionway. Recommendations concluded was to remove the door frames, grind back a 120mm taper each way and re-glass. The full laminate in the middle tapering each way, for the whole length of the crack + 60mm approx. The recommend that if Bi axial tape is available it be laid  + and – 45 deg to the line of the crack. The top layer can be light mat for grinding to smooth & match the surrounding surface as best as possible. This repair to be done both front & back, and if possible across the cutout in the corners, so the material forms a continuous flange. The dry weight of material should be 900 Gr each side. If possible epoxy resin would be preferred since you are laminating over old substrate.