Yacht surveys in Menorca

Westmar Surveys carries out surveys throughout the Balearic Islands. In Menorca that means the yachts berthed in Maó — one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean — and in Ciutadella and Fornells. Buyers come from all over Europe; the survey is arranged around the boat's berth and the yard that will lift it, and attended with you or on your behalf.

Pre-purchase surveys

A full pre-purchase survey covers hull, deck and structure, machinery and propulsion, the electrical installation, plumbing and tankage, rig and deck hardware, and safety equipment. Findings are ranked by urgency, with their likely cause and cost implication, and the report is issued within two to four working days in English, Spanish, French or German.

A haul-out is strongly recommended: keel attachment, through-hulls and seacocks, rudder bearings and stern gear cannot be properly assessed afloat. The lift is booked with the yard, and the hull needs time ashore to dry before moisture readings mean anything — how long depends on the weather. The engine must not have been run on the day of the survey before it begins: a cold start shows what a warm one hides.

A viewing before you commit

For a buyer flying in, a First Impression review of the listing comes first: the photographs, specification and documents are read before the trip is booked, and the review says whether the boat deserves it and what to ask beforehand. An accompanied viewing follows if it does — with you at the boat, or on your behalf with a written summary afterwards.

Rigging inspections and sea trials

A deck-level rigging inspection is included in every pre-purchase survey of a sailing yacht, and an aloft inspection can be added where the rig's age or history calls for it. Sea trial attendance of one hour is included as standard; extended and standalone sea trials are available separately, as are standalone rigging inspections for a yacht you already own.

Fees

Pre-purchase surveys are €28 per foot LOA for sailing yachts and €26 for motor yachts, with a minimum of €900; the full fee card is on the fees page. Travel to Menorca is agreed with you before the survey is booked, so the quotation is complete before the day.

Buying in Menorca

Menorca is quieter than its neighbours, and more of the boats for sale there have been privately cruised than chartered. A boat that has been used gently still needs a full survey: low hours can mean an engine that has spent long periods idle, and a yacht that has wintered afloat for years has spent that time on its seacocks and anodes. The survey looks at the condition the use has produced, whatever the use was.

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