Comprehensive Survey of a Bavaria 37: Insights for Yacht Buyers in Greece
- Apr 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 3
Last week, I conducted a full condition survey on a Bavaria 37 located in Margarona Boatyard, Preveza. This yacht is a prime example of what I’d call a “project boat with solid fundamentals.”
Interestingly, the owner is also a surveyor based in Scandinavia. This made for an engaging discussion about our approaches, standards, and expectations. He had already identified the boat as a refurbishment project. The goal of the survey was to clearly define the starting point before beginning the work.
First Impressions
At first glance, the yacht showed all the typical signs of having been left unattended for several seasons:
Flat batteries
General dirt and weathering
Damp internal areas
Non-operational systems
None of this is unusual. Importantly, none of it tells you anything about the structure of the boat. That’s where a proper survey matters.
The Key Finding: Structure First
The most crucial part of any survey is always the structure — hull, keel, deck, and internal framework.
On this Bavaria 37, I found:
Hull moisture readings were low throughout
Percussion soundings were consistent and solid
Keel structure and internal matrix were in good condition
Deck and coachroof showed no structural concerns
In simple terms: 👉 the boat is fundamentally sound. This is the difference between a good project and a bad one.
What Needed Attention
As expected, most findings were related to recommissioning rather than defects. These included:
Water ingress into aft cabins and around deck fittings
Completely depleted battery bank
Steering system stiffness due to lack of use
Gas hose replacement required
Corroded lifeline terminals
General servicing across systems (winches, pumps, engine, etc.)
There were also a few practical issues:
Broken rope clutches
Damaged wind sensor
Minor deck hardware defects
Damp upholstery
Again, all typical for a yacht that has been sitting idle.
A Good Example of “Deferred Maintenance”
This yacht exemplifies something I see regularly in Greece: a boat that hasn’t been abused, just not used. There’s a significant difference:
No structural damage
No major failures
Just time, weather, and lack of maintenance
These conditions often present the best opportunities — if you go in with your eyes open.
The Real Value of the Survey
The purpose of this survey wasn’t to “find faults.” Instead, it aimed to:
✔ Confirm structural integrity
✔ Identify safety-critical items
✔ Define a clear recommissioning plan
✔ Support realistic valuation
The result?
Current value (as is): €48,000 – €55,000
Post-recommissioned value: €65,000 – €72,000
That gap is where the opportunity lies.
Final Thoughts
This Bavaria 37 is a solid yacht that simply needs to be brought back to life. With the right approach, you can:
Fix the leaks
Replace consumables
Service the systems
Clean and present properly
It will become a very attractive boat in the current market. That’s exactly why surveys matter. The difference between: 👉 a risky purchase and 👉 a smart investment is understanding the boat properly before you start.
Thinking of Buying a Yacht in Greece?
If you’re considering a yacht in Preveza, Lefkada, or anywhere in the Ionian, I’m always happy to take a quick look at a listing. I can provide you with an honest first opinion before you commit.
📱 WhatsApp: +30 6973220554
In conclusion, understanding the condition of a yacht is essential for making informed decisions. A thorough survey can save you from potential pitfalls and help you identify the true value of your investment. Whether you are looking for a project boat or a ready-to-sail yacht, knowledge is your best ally.
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