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A full day on site for a pre-purchase survey is always a reminder of why proper inspections matter so much, especially in today’s market where appearances can be misleading. This yacht was a good example of a vessel that, at first glance, presented well, but as always, it was the detail that told the real story. The weather conditions were ideal, which allowed a calm and methodical inspection of the hull, deck, structure, machinery, rig, and onboard systems. These days make a

Buying or owning a yacht in Greece is an exciting adventure. But before you set sail, there’s an important step you can’t skip: a yacht survey. It’s your best tool to avoid surprises and protect your investment. However, understanding yacht survey pricing can be confusing. I’ve been through this process many times, and I want to share what I’ve learned about the costs involved, so you can plan better and feel confident. What Does a Yacht Surveyor Do? Before diving into costs

Yesterday’s job was a full pre-purchase condition survey on a Lagoon 450 F catamaran at Aktio Marina, Preveza. It was one of those classic winter survey days in the Ionian: cold, clear, and ideal for a proper structural inspection with the boat ashore and everything accessible. These are always the surveys I enjoy most, because they allow a vessel to be assessed methodically and without compromise. A pre-purchase survey is not just about finding faults. It is about understand

Why Aluminum Hull Inspection Tips Matter Aluminum hulls behave differently than fiberglass or steel. They resist corrosion well but can suffer from fatigue, dents, and galvanic corrosion if not properly maintained. Understanding these unique traits helps you spot potential issues early. For example, aluminum can develop tiny cracks from stress or impact. These cracks might not be obvious at first but can lead to serious problems if ignored. Also, aluminum’s conductivity means

Buying or owning a yacht in Greece is an exciting adventure. The stunning Ionian Islands and the Aegean Sea offer some of the best sailing experiences in the world. But before you set sail, you need to make sure your investment is safe and sound. That’s where a yacht surveyor comes in. Choosing the right professional to inspect your yacht can save you from costly surprises and give you peace of mind. I’ve learned a lot about this process, and I want to share some practical ti

If you are planning to buy a yacht or catamaran in Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio, Nidri, Corfu, or anywhere in the Ionian , This week I completed a full pre-purchase condition survey on a 2019 Fountaine Pajot Helia 44, carried out between Lefkada and Aktio in the Ionian. The inspection was split across two sessions: a dry, calm sea trial earlier in the week, followed today by a cold, wet haul-out for the underwater inspection. Despite the winter conditions, the vessel showed well,

Yacht Survey in Lefkada – Discovery 3000 Inspection Report After several days of torrential rain and localised flooding around Nidri, today’s task was to inspect a Discovery 3000 sailing yacht that has been laid up for many years. Despite the challenging conditions and the vessel’s long period out of use, the inspection turned out to be one of the more rewarding surveys of the season — a reminder that even older Ionian yachts can still show remarkable resilience when built we

Today I carried out a full pre-purchase condition survey on a 1987 Beneteau First 435 here in Preveza. This German Frers–designed model continues to attract sailors looking for a capable, offshore-oriented cruiser with a strong hull and a performance edge. As with any yacht of this vintage, a complete structural and systems inspection is vital to give prospective buyers a clear understanding of the vessel’s condition before committing to a purchase. Below is a detailed overvi

For many sailors, the Ionian remains one of the most attractive cruising grounds in the Mediterranean. The warm climate, reliable summer breezes, and well-developed marinas around Preveza, Lefkada, Aktio and Nidri make this region a hub for yacht ownership and sales. Each year I meet buyers who fly in with excitement and good intentions, but without a clear plan of what to look for before they even step aboard. A well-prepared buyer makes smarter decisions, avoids costly surp

Last week I was commissioned to carry out a full pre-purchase condition survey and valuation on a Grand Soleil 43 , Serendipity , here in Preveza. Built by Cantiere del Pardo , these yachts have earned a strong reputation for combining performance, craftsmanship and offshore capability, and this example reflected much of that pedigree. The inspection took place both ashore and afloat, covering the complete structural, mechanical and domestic systems in accordance with IIMS su

When you invest in a yacht, especially in the beautiful Ionian Islands, you want to be sure your vessel is safe, seaworthy, and ready for adventure. That’s where a marine safety evaluation comes in. It’s a thorough check-up that helps you avoid surprises and costly repairs down the line. I’ve seen firsthand how a proper evaluation can save yacht owners time, money, and stress. Let me walk you through why marine surveys are essential and how they protect your investment. What

The Ionian Islands offer some of the most stunning sailing waters in the Mediterranean. With their crystal-clear seas, charming coastal villages, and sheltered bays, they attract yacht enthusiasts from around the world. If you are thinking about buying a yacht to explore this beautiful region, choosing the right vessel is crucial. The best yacht for the Ionian Islands depends on your sailing style, budget, and the kind of experience you want to enjoy. This guide highlights so