Survey Day on “CHILLED” – A Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 469 at Cleopatra Marina

This week’s pre-purchase survey took place at Cleopatra Marina on the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 469 “CHILLED”, and it was a perfect example of how a professional inspection should be carried out. Windy conditions kept things lively alongside, but once on board the focus was on methodical access, full exposure of critical areas, and a proper assessment of the vessel from keel to mast.

“CHILLED” is an ex-charter yacht from Sunsail, and as with all former charter vessels, the real story is in how well she has been maintained. Charter use does not automatically mean poor condition. In many cases, boats like this benefit from structured servicing schedules, professional oversight, and regular attention. This yacht proved to be a very honest example of the model.

Vessel stripped out for inspection

One of the first steps on board was lifting all sole boards throughout the vessel. This allowed full exposure of the bilge spaces, keel bolt areas, structural grid, and rudder structure. There are no shortcuts in a proper survey. If areas are hidden, defects can be hidden too. Full access is essential for assessing the true structural condition of a yacht, and this was achieved from the outset.

Access to steering gear, lazarette, gas locker and life raft

Structurally, the findings were very positive. The hull below the waterline showed no signs of distortion, blistering, or osmotic activity. Moisture readings were consistent and within acceptable limits. The keel attachment and internal structure were exposed and found to be clean, dry, and secure. The rudder and steering system were structurally sound, with only minor cosmetic gelcoat damage noted on the rudder blade which simply requires local touch-up.

Rudder blade damage

The deck and coachroof were firm underfoot with no signs of softness or structural weakness. Cosmetic gelcoat chips and paint marks were noted in isolated areas, typical of normal operational wear, but nothing of concern structurally. These are simple repairs for presentation rather than safety or integrity.

Inside, the accommodation was clean, dry, and well ventilated. Joinery and internal mouldings were in good order, and the layout was practical and well suited for both charter and private ownership. A small number of practical improvements were noted, such as making the forward cabin floorboards easier to remove in an emergency, and minor cosmetic laminate repairs, but again nothing that detracted from the vessel’s overall quality.

The machinery installation was well presented. The Yanmar 4JH5E engine installation was clean, tidy, and free from visible leaks. The fuel, freshwater, gas, electrical, and electronic systems were all well installed and showed signs of proper maintenance. The navigation and electronics package was comprehensive and professionally fitted, and the autopilot was tested and found to be functioning correctly.

Safety equipment was present and appropriate for the vessel, with one important point raised regarding the securing of the liferaft. It must be restrained against lateral movement before any voyage to sea. This is a simple but critical safety detail that can easily be overlooked.

One small system item of note was the refrigeration. One compressor started normally when powered, while the second did not engage within the same time period. This may be as simple as a separate control switch, but it should be checked to confirm correct operation.

Overall, “CHILLED” presented as a strong example of the Sun Odyssey 469. No major defects, no structural concerns, and only minor cosmetic and practical items to address. This is exactly what buyers hope to see in a pre-purchase survey. A sound hull, solid structure, tidy systems, and clear evidence of ongoing care.

CE Plaque fitted to all EU vessels from 1998

This survey also perfectly demonstrated the importance of process. Full access, lifting sole boards, checking keel bolts, inspecting rudder structures, and methodically working through each system is what separates a true condition survey from a superficial walk-through. Buyers rely on this level of detail to make informed decisions, and this inspection delivered exactly that.

A very good yacht, a very honest result, and a strong candidate for purchase.