When owning a yacht, one has to be acquainted with maritime survey standards that are applicable to the specific vessel. There are various situations where knowing these standards is critical. It may be when purchasing a yacht, maintaining a yacht, or even when selling a yacht. Marine survey standards set requirements for the safety of the vessel and compliance with international regulations.
What are Marine Survey Standards?
Marine survey standards are the guidelines and requirements formulated by maritime organisations, classification societies, and insurance firms. These standards narrate how a yacht survey is to be undertaken, the areas of inspection, and the level of expertise of surveyors. Familiarity with these standards helps a yacht owner to ensure that an exhaustive and professional assessment of their vessel is done.
Key International Standards and Bodies
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the body responsible for drawing up international maritime safety standards. For yachts, the kind of standards to be found in classification societies such as Lloyd’s Register, Det Norske Veritas (DNV), and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) are the most applicable. These societies draw up rules for the construction, maintenance, and surveys of yachts.
The Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) of the European Union is applicable to the building of yachts or their importation into the EU member states. Essential Safety requirements are included as well as provisions for periodic surveys and inspections. For yacht owners within the EU, an understanding of the RCD is a necessity.
Types of Surveys and their Standards
Various types of surveys are undertaken for different stages of yacht ownership. Each type has its specific standards. These include:
Pre-Purchase Surveys which are conducted to the minimum required standards to evaluate the yacht’s condition in detail.
Rigorous inspections of the hull, engines, electrical systems, safety gear, etc., occur during surveys.
Surveys commissioned by the underwriting class societies or insurance companies are periodically required and are known as condition surveys. The interval between surveys is typically 2-5 years, with more frequent surveys for older yachts.
Haul-out or in-water surveys also include assessments of certain systems.
Insurance Requirements and Standards
Your policy will indicate the survey standards your yacht is required to meet. Most insurance companies require a survey by a certified surveyor at regular fixed intervals for yachts of a certain age or value. The surveys are a risk management tool for the insurance company and the yacht owner to ensure that all yachts are properly maintained and seaworthy.
Flag State Regulations
Additional surveys may be required by the flag state.
Why Standards Matter for Yacht Owners
The benefits of survey compliance include assuring a safe yacht for the owner and crew, protecting and maintaining the value of the yacht through a documented condition/maintenance survey, supporting insurance claims, and providing peace of mind as a qualified professional survey has been conducted.
Preparing for a Standards-Based Survey
When surveys based on standards are to be conducted, preparation is critical. Ensure that all documentation is completed and presented, that the yacht is accessible for inspection, and that all critical systems are operational.
A well maintained yacht will pass surveys with fewer issues.
The Future of Marine Survey Standards
The changing world is affecting marine survey standards. With the addition of battery-powered yachts and innovative composite construction, along with the addition of modern electronics, new standards are necessary. Rest assured. Keeping up to date on the latest standards ensures your investment is protected.
Staying current with marine survey standards is a commitment all responsible yacht owners should understand, and new owners would be wise to follow suit. Having a qualified surveyor is paramount to getting the assessment your yacht deserves.