Is a sea trial included in a yacht survey?
Yes — it is an inseparable part of a thorough survey. During the sea trial the engine is tested at full load, across the rev range and through steering manoeuvres; listening to it at idle is not enough. Reading the engine parameters underway with a diagnostic tool surfaces the faults that never appear alongside: overheating, power loss, vibration.
Why it works this way
Three things are invisible on a stopped engine: the temperature distribution under load, a leak under pressure and a slackening under vibration. All three are early warnings of the most expensive repairs, and all three only appear with the boat afloat and the engine working. The diagnostic tool stays connected throughout the trial; the engine’s own data is logged rather than judged by ear.
Related services
Serkan Kotel · independent yacht surveyor · IIMS · ABYC · MCA
