📄 FREE YACHT BUYER CHECKLIST (GREECE EDITION)Buying a Yacht in Greece? Read This Before You Commit
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
Purchasing a yacht in Greece can be an excellent investment and lifestyle decision, but many vessels—particularly in the Ionian region—have been heavily used in charter or exposed to strong seasonal conditions.
This checklist highlights the key areas that should be carefully considered before proceeding with a purchase.
1. 🛥️ Hull & Structure
Check for signs of previous grounding (keel/hull joint cracking)
Inspect for osmosis or moisture in the laminate
Look for uneven antifouling or repair areas
Tap test for delamination (if possible)
👉 Common issue in Greece: Grounding damage and poorly faired keel repairs
2. ⚓ Keel & Underwater Profile
Inspect keel bolts internally for corrosion
Check keel alignment and fairing externally
Look for signs of movement at keel stub
👉 Even minor groundings can cause hidden structural stress
3. 🧭 Steering System
Inspect cables, pulleys, quadrant and linkages
Check for play in the rudder bearings
Look for corrosion or water ingress in steering compartments
4. ⚙️ Engine & Propulsion
Cold start test (important)
Check for excessive smoke under load
Inspect engine mounts and alignment
Review service history
👉 Many engines appear fine at idle but show issues under load
5. 🔌 Electrical Systems
Check battery age and installation
Inspect wiring quality and modifications
Test shore power and charging systems
6. 🚰 Plumbing & Tanks
Inspect freshwater system for leaks
Check condition of hoses and pumps
Test heads and holding tank system
Check the condition of the fuel tank, secuity, fuel filling hose, copper fuel pipes, etc
7. 🔥 Gas Installation
Check gas locker drainage
Inspect hoses and regulator condition
Confirm shut-off valves are accessible
8. ⛵ Rigging & Mast
Age of standing rigging (important after 10–15 years)
Inspect for broken strands, corrosion, or wear
Check chainplates internally
👉 Insurance companies often require rig replacement after ~10 years
9. 🪟 Deck, Fittings & Teak
Check for soft spots on deck
Inspect around deck fittings for leaks
Look for water ingress under teak decks
👉 Trapped moisture under teak is very common in Greece
10. 🧯 Safety Equipment
Check fire extinguishers (expiry dates)
Inspect bilge pumps and alarms
Confirm life-saving equipment is present and serviceable
11. 📄 Documentation
Verify ownership and registration
Check VAT status
Review service and maintenance records
12. ⚠️ General Condition
Look beyond cosmetics
Check areas not immediately visible
Be cautious of “freshly cleaned” boats hiding defects
⚠️ Final Advice
A visual inspection alone is not enough to fully assess a yacht’s condition.
Many serious defects—including structural issues, moisture ingress, and system failures—are not immediately visible and require a detailed inspection.
✔️ Before You Buy
A professional pre-purchase survey will:
Identify structural and mechanical issues
Provide a clear condition assessment
Support price negotiations
Help avoid unexpected costs
📍 Need Advice or a Survey in Greece?
If you are considering purchasing a yacht in Preveza, Lefkada, or the wider Ionian region, feel free to get in touch for independent advice or a professional survey.
Steven Truss MIIMS
Marine Surveyor – Yacht Surveys
“Most surveys I carry out are in Preveza, Lefkada and the wider Ionian region, where a large number of ex-charter yachts are based.”
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