What is a Marine Survey?
A marine survey is a thorough inspection of a vessel, covering all aspects from hull integrity to the condition of the engine and electrical systems. Whether you’re buying a new yacht, preparing for a major voyage, or simply maintaining your current vessel, a marine survey is an essential step to safeguard your investment.
At Smets Surveys, we understand that owning a yacht is a significant investment, and ensuring its safety, functionality, and value is paramount. That’s why our comprehensive marine survey services are designed to provide you with detailed insights into your vessel's condition, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.
Pre-purchase condition & value ($25/ft)
Before purchasing a yacht, it’s crucial to have a detailed understanding of its condition. Our pre-purchase condition and value surveys provide an exhaustive evaluation of the vessel, including its structural integrity, systems as well as a fair market value based on verified comps. This service helps you avoid costly surprises and negotiate better deals.
Insurance condition & value ($20/ft)
Insurance companies often require a marine survey to assess the value and condition of your yacht. Our insurance condition and value surveys cover US Coast Guard regulations, NFPA fire safety and major ABYC fuel, electrical or exhaust issues. They provide the detailed information insurers need, helping you secure the coverage that best protects your vessel.
Marina reports ($15/ft)
For gaining entrance into a marina, our Marina reports provide the essential information that marinas need and cover essential regulations. This is a crucial step to help in the process of acquiring a home for your yacht.
Mooring surveys ($20/ft)
For securing or keeping a mooring ball, our Mooring condition and value surveys give mooring companies the full condition, safety and value information they require for your yacht.
Damage reports ($20/ft)
In the unfortunate event of an accident or damage, our damage surveys assess the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs. We provide a clear, unbiased report that can be used for insurance claims or repair planning.
Sellers report ($20/ft)
If you’re looking to sell or refinance your yacht, our appraisal surveys deliver a comprehensive analysis of its market value based on current market conditions, comparable sales, and the vessel's condition. This type of seller’s report provides a clear understanding of what a boat is worth and the necessary items to be addressed.
Oil Samples ($50 each)
Oil samples are analyzed by the Cat S.O.S lab at Hawthorne Cat, checking for engine wear metals, contamination such as fuel, water and coolant, and the condition of the oil. Results are typically returned in 5 to 10 business days.

Survey FAQs
How much does a survey cost?
Pre-purchase condition and value surveys are $25 per foot. Insurance, mooring, sellers and damage reports are $20 per foot. Marina reports are $15 per foot. Oil samples are $50 each.
How soon can you schedule my survey?
Surveys are scheduled Monday through Friday, typically within about two weeks of your request, and start at 8:30 am. Contact me and we will find a time that works for you.
When will I receive my report?
Your survey report is delivered as a PDF by 8 pm on the next business day after the survey.
What areas do you serve?
Based in San Diego, I survey yachts throughout Southern California, Arizona, Nevada and Mexico.
What types of surveys do you perform?
Pre-purchase condition and value, insurance condition and value, marina and mooring, sellers, and damage surveys for sail and motor yachts.
Which San Diego marinas do you work at?
I survey boats at every marina on San Diego Bay and Mission Bay, and at the boatyards for haul-outs.
Shelter Island: Bay Club Marina, Half Moon Anchorage, Kona Kai Marina, Shelter Cove Marina, Shelter Island Marina at the Island Palms, Silver Gate Yacht Club
Point Loma and America's Cup Harbor: Point Loma Marina, Sun Harbor Marina, San Diego Yacht Club, Southwestern Yacht Club
Harbor Island: Harbor Island West Marina, Marina Cortez, Safe Harbor Cabrillo Isle, Safe Harbor Sunroad, Sheraton Marina
Downtown: San Diego Marriott Marina
Coronado: Coronado Cays Yacht Club, Coronado Yacht Club, Glorietta Bay Marina, Loews Coronado Bay Marina
National City and Chula Vista: Pier 32 Marina, Safe Harbor Bayfront, Safe Harbor South Bay
Mission Bay: Bahia Resort Marina, Campland on the Bay, Dana Landing Marina, Driscoll Mission Bay Marina, Hilton San Diego Resort Marina, Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Marina, Marina Village, Seaforth Marina, SeaWorld Marina, The Dana Hotel Marina
North County: Oceanside Harbor
Don't see your marina? I travel throughout Southern California, Arizona, Nevada and Mexico.
