Pre-Purchase Boat Inspections Sydney
Are you about to purchase a used boat and looking for a pre-purchase boat inspection in the Sydney region? We can provide you with a detailed, accurate and informative report before you purchase a boat.
We are a highly experienced team of dual-certified Marine Surveyors and Mechanics, and strive to provide you with the most comprehensive report possible. Throughout the inspection, we cover the hull, engines, trailer, electrical and complete a sea trial. You will receive your report in a timely manner, so you're not left waiting for the results of your boat inspection. We're always available for advice before and after the purchase, so we can give you a professional, unbiased opinion and walk you through the results of your inspection.
- Sydney Wide Service
- Mobile Onsite Inspections
- Fast & Efficient Reporting
- Unlimited Follow Up Advice
- Friendly Service
- Detailed Easy To Read Reports
- Sea Trial & Testing Under Load
- Interstate Purchase Advice
- High Quality Photo Gallery Of Vessel
- Easy Online Booking
- Dual Certified Marine Surveyors & Engineers
What do our boat inspections cover?
Our only criteria is the vessel has at least one engine. We specialise is power boat inspections, and do not inspect sailing yachts. Listed below is a brief overview of what we check on our pre-purchase boat inspection reports. Each inspection is tailored specifically to the make, model and options fitted to the vessel to ensure we check everything we possibly can onboard. We can provide additional services such as oil sampling and engine diagnostics read outs on numerous engine brands.
Reach out today with details of the specific boat you’re interested in for a sample report.
boat
- Details (HIN / Registration)
- Upholstery Condition
- Windscreen
- Transom / Flooring
- Safety Equipment
- Instruments / Electrical
- Hull Structual Condition
- AND MORE
engines
- Compression (Petrol Only)
- Gearbox Oil
- Engine Oil
- Trim System
- Steering System
- Engine Mounts
- Corrosion
- Exhaust System
- Water & Oil Leaks
- Sea Trialing
- AND MORE
Trailer
- Tyres
- Corrosion
- Wheel Bearings
- Winch Operation
- Rollers & Skids
- Safety Chain & Coupling
- Lights
- Trailer VIN
- AND MORE
Electrics
- Navigation Lights
- Cabin & Cockpit Lighting
- Depth Sounders
- Navigation Electronics
- Toilets
- Showers
- Lighting
- Air Conditioning
- Refrigerators
- Live Bait Tanks
- Fishing Equipment
- AND MORE
How much do our boat inspections cost?
Vessel size | Boat, Engine and Trailer Inspections |
---|---|
0-22ft or 0-6.7m | $575 + $175 per additional engine inspected |
23-29ft or 6.8m-8.8m | $745 + $175 per additional engine inspected |
30ft or 8.9m And Larger | View our Marine Surveys page |
Engine Only Inspections | $499 for the first engine |
Hull Only Inspections | Contact us for a quote |
Generators | $175 for additional generator/s |
Oil Samples | $250 for the first, $100 each additional sample |
Diagnostic Computer History | $99 per engine (limited makes and models) |
Ask a Question
Request a sample boat inspection report
We are proud of our work, and happy to provide a sample boat inspection report upon request. Fill in the form, including details of the type of boat you’re looking to purchase and we will send a comparable sample inspection report.
Ask our opinion
Looking at listings can be confusing, and we understand it may not make complete sense. Leverage our experience by sending us a couple of listings that you’re interested in, and we will provide you with independent purchasing advised based on the information provided in the listing.
Prefer to chat? Call now
Recent Reviews
Read what our previous customers are saying:
- Clinton Cowin- Google
To say I'm satisfied with my purchase is an understatement! I had the pleasure of dealing with both Aaron and Don and they're both amazing humans that are professional and passionate.I had an initial inspection done of a boat that looked absolutely perfect on the surface but the inspection picked... read moreTo say I'm satisfied with my purchase is an understatement! I had the pleasure of dealing with both Aaron and Don and they're both amazing humans that are professional and passionate.I had an initial inspection done of a boat that looked absolutely perfect on the surface but the inspection picked up issues that were impossible to see without the right tools and experience. This has absolutely saved me tens of thousands of dollars!! I can't thank you guys enough.The second inspection came up perfect and I'm now the proud owner of an awesome boat that I'm 110% confident in and will serve me for years to come.I have to admit that I was hesitant to spend the money to begin with but I now know that I'll NEVER be buying a bout without having the boys inspect it for me first. This service is an absolute MUST for anyone looking at a second hand boat!! read less
Andrew Cross- GoogleOutstanding service. Helpful, supportive, informative, open and honest. As a complete newbie to boating, Aaron supported me over the course of several months in the search for our first family boat. He patiently answered numerous queries, responding personally to each and every one, and provided invaluable advice and guidance throughout... read moreOutstanding service. Helpful, supportive, informative, open and honest. As a complete newbie to boating, Aaron supported me over the course of several months in the search for our first family boat. He patiently answered numerous queries, responding personally to each and every one, and provided invaluable advice and guidance throughout the entire search, pre-purchase and purchase cycle. The pre-purchase inspection reports and debriefs were incredibly thorough, highlighting all issues both minor and major. In the first instance Don’s inspection and report saved me from progressing on what would have been a very costly mistake. Several months later, thanks to Aaron’s advice and input I finally found a great boat for which Aaron was incredibly flexible in accommodating an inspection to meet the seller’s tight time window. Thank you guys. I cannot recommend Aaron, Don and BoatBuy highly enough and would 100% engage their services again. read less
- brenton gaskin- Google
Hi guys! Had Aaron look at a boat for me in Sydney, l live in adelaide , Aaron did a great job ,setting up the inspection with the seller! Both the seller and I were happy with the outcome! I have since purchased the boat! And couldn't be happier!... read moreHi guys! Had Aaron look at a boat for me in Sydney, l live in adelaide , Aaron did a great job ,setting up the inspection with the seller! Both the seller and I were happy with the outcome! I have since purchased the boat! And couldn't be happier! Thanks Aaron for your efforts! read less
- David Sullivan- Google
Being involved in assisting people buy and sell boats over the years I have found Aaron and his team at BoatBuy to be both fair and thorough with their reporting. The team at BoatBuy are great at explaining to the buyer any issues that they find and work well with... read moreBeing involved in assisting people buy and sell boats over the years I have found Aaron and his team at BoatBuy to be both fair and thorough with their reporting. The team at BoatBuy are great at explaining to the buyer any issues that they find and work well with the buyer and broker to get the right result for all parties involved in the sale. I would not hesitate recommending Aaron and his team to anyone looking at purchasing a vessel in and around the Sydney area. read less
- deb turnbull- Google
I found Aaron and his team extremely helpful and organised the inspection I had done very quickly, as I needed a boat pulled out.Donald was easy to contact with any questions I needed to ask and gave me his honest opinion.If I have to do it again I would highly... read moreI found Aaron and his team extremely helpful and organised the inspection I had done very quickly, as I needed a boat pulled out.Donald was easy to contact with any questions I needed to ask and gave me his honest opinion.If I have to do it again I would highly recommend this company and guys. read less
- Andy “Pantsman” Holahan- Google
Aaron from Boatbuy was a pleasure to deal with, responsive with contact via text and by phone, and provides a value for money detailed report for boat buyers. I am in Newcastle and could not inspect because of Covid restrictions, he made the process easy and hassle free.
- Rube Sayed- Google
If you are looking to buy a boat and you need a pre-purchase boat inspection done by a boat surveyor I can’t recommend Aaron and his team at BoatBuy enough. Being a novice myself, they have helped me every step of the way ensuring I’m asking the right questions, ensuring... read moreIf you are looking to buy a boat and you need a pre-purchase boat inspection done by a boat surveyor I can’t recommend Aaron and his team at BoatBuy enough. Being a novice myself, they have helped me every step of the way ensuring I’m asking the right questions, ensuring I’m looking at the right boats and knowing which boats I should steer clear of. Their whole process is seamless and their customer service is second to none. The best part is that they can inspect the hull, engine and trailer which is a full comprehensive inspection which comes with a phenomenal report which can be used for your insurer. Thanks again Aaron! read less
- Vadis Rodato- Google
Thanks to Aaron and Donald from BoatBuy. They responded very quickly to my request and did a very comprehensive review for me. Their offer to return to the boat and review repairs carried out was very much appreciated. Excellent communication and good all round service. Considering lock downs and therefore... read moreThanks to Aaron and Donald from BoatBuy. They responded very quickly to my request and did a very comprehensive review for me. Their offer to return to the boat and review repairs carried out was very much appreciated. Excellent communication and good all round service. Considering lock downs and therefore not being able to physically eyeball the boat myself, it was great to have Donald and Aaron be my eyes on the ground in Sydney. read less
theboatbrokerage- GoogleAaron and Dom have assisted us with surveys in Sydney for some time now. I’ve always found their mechanical knowledge and advise excellent and surveys both professional and prompt allowing us to assist the buyer with real time information.With the changing times and closed borders their services have become even... read moreAaron and Dom have assisted us with surveys in Sydney for some time now. I’ve always found their mechanical knowledge and advise excellent and surveys both professional and prompt allowing us to assist the buyer with real time information.With the changing times and closed borders their services have become even more valuable with Dom somewhat reluctantly staring in our survey videos for buyers who are unable to attend. Both Aaron and Dom are honest and intelligent guys which is what we need to help our buyers make an informed decision.Highly recommend. Dan Jones read less
- theboatbrokerage- Google
Brendon literally saved the day with another closed border we were unable to get to the Gold Coast to deliver the Axopar we were surveying to the slip. A simple consent form signed and Brendon was able to safely deliver, survey and return the boat for us enabling the process... read moreBrendon literally saved the day with another closed border we were unable to get to the Gold Coast to deliver the Axopar we were surveying to the slip. A simple consent form signed and Brendon was able to safely deliver, survey and return the boat for us enabling the process to go ahead.His mechanical knowledge helped us with some future items to be aware of and enabled both buyer and broker to come away with valuable information on the health of the vessel.Recommend if you are looking for a surveyor in Qld. Dan Jones read less
Glenn Thomas Moore- GoogleAaron, Brendanjust like to thank you guys, on the ease of the works completed on my pre purchase report, on my new boat,the simplicity of filling in the form on the website, and the prompt actionon attending the survey at short notice, especially when in in sydney and the boat... read moreAaron, Brendanjust like to thank you guys, on the ease of the works completed on my pre purchase report, on my new boat,the simplicity of filling in the form on the website, and the prompt actionon attending the survey at short notice, especially when in in sydney and the boat is in QLD, and the fully detailed report sent to me with in hours of the bost being fully inspected, the way the report was detailed, and easy to understand, would highly recommend you guys to any person looking for a new vessel,many thanks guysglenn read less
- Pip Naumovski- Google
From the moment we connected they were very professional .what they said they did , their report was very informative the vessel was purchased out of Sydney and into Perth as travel restrictions did not allow me to view . when the vessel arrived ... read moreFrom the moment we connected they were very professional .what they said they did , their report was very informative the vessel was purchased out of Sydney and into Perth as travel restrictions did not allow me to view . when the vessel arrived in Perth there was no hidden surprises very happy and value for money on the spot reportingthanks Aaron and Don read less
- Mark Jamison- Google
My experience with Brendon Sutton from BoatBuy was excellent, before i even engaged him he researched the boat i was interested in and alerted me to the fact it had Volvo XDP stern drives that have a lot of issues, the day he surveyed and inspected the boat he kept... read moreMy experience with Brendon Sutton from BoatBuy was excellent, before i even engaged him he researched the boat i was interested in and alerted me to the fact it had Volvo XDP stern drives that have a lot of issues, the day he surveyed and inspected the boat he kept me informed when it was on the slip and provided me with a comprehensive and detailed report that i was able to understand and make an informed decision about the boat. Thanks to Brendon's keen eye and experience he was able to pickup on faults that i would never have seen or potentially looked for. I never purchased the boat thankfully which saved me ten's of thousands of dollars in repairs had i not used BoatBuy to inspect the boat.I can highly recommend BoatBuy's services and when i find the next boat Brendon or Aaron will be the first guys i call.Thank you once again Brendon great job ! read less
Mark Smith- GoogleContacted the team at BoatBuy to arrange an interstate inspection for me. Don was very responsive, clearly articulated the expectations and costs and referred me to book on-line. Process was simple and inspection arranged. Report was very comprehensive with plenty of pics and provided same day of inspection. Followed up... read moreContacted the team at BoatBuy to arrange an interstate inspection for me. Don was very responsive, clearly articulated the expectations and costs and referred me to book on-line. Process was simple and inspection arranged. Report was very comprehensive with plenty of pics and provided same day of inspection. Followed up with a phone call to further elaborate. A great experience, would definitely use them again, shame the boat wasn't as good as these guys! read less
- Martin Thorn- Google
I have had the pleasure of dealing with this company as a buyer and a seller and found them to be highly reliable, professional, knowledgeable, informative and above all, honest. I particularly experienced when buying a boat, they were happy for me to attend the inspection and provide on the... read moreI have had the pleasure of dealing with this company as a buyer and a seller and found them to be highly reliable, professional, knowledgeable, informative and above all, honest. I particularly experienced when buying a boat, they were happy for me to attend the inspection and provide on the spot feedback and advice, not just on the issues they found, but on the boat in general. A very valuable experience. read less
- Steven Goodhew- Google
Aaron from boat buy and his team are the best people to us when looking to buy a boat they are though and very helpful nothing is to much trouble. The report lets you no any problems before you perches the boat i would highly recommend him and is... read moreAaron from boat buy and his team are the best people to us when looking to buy a boat they are though and very helpful nothing is to much trouble. The report lets you no any problems before you perches the boat i would highly recommend him and is team they were so knowledgeable every time a rang with question always helpful 10 out of 10 thank you. read less
- Stephen Nash- Google
My wife and I organised a Survey through BoatBuy, on a boat we wanted to purchase.... What an amazing experience and thorough service!We cannot thank Brendan enough for what he did. He did an absolutely professional job and worked SO hard. I could not believe he went out of his... read moreMy wife and I organised a Survey through BoatBuy, on a boat we wanted to purchase.... What an amazing experience and thorough service!We cannot thank Brendan enough for what he did. He did an absolutely professional job and worked SO hard. I could not believe he went out of his way to also inspect the trailer, which was kept 25 minutes away.We believe the service that BoatBuy offers is second to non and we could not recommend the company highly enough.It was money well spent and we would certainly use BoatBuy again.Brendan is punctual, fastidious, thorough and communicative, a real pleasure to deal with. Thanks again for everything.Regards,Steve Nash read less
Glenn Watson- GoogleAwesome service!! This is going to sound like a paid add but I couldn’t be happier!! Brendan and Aaron were awesome to deal with and an amazing insurance policy!!! Originally wasn’t going to get a check done as I was that confident ? but deciding to get it professionally... read moreAwesome service!! This is going to sound like a paid add but I couldn’t be happier!! Brendan and Aaron were awesome to deal with and an amazing insurance policy!!! Originally wasn’t going to get a check done as I was that confident ? but deciding to get it professionally checked just saved me $20,000. Highly recommend!!! read less
- Steven Shorten- Google
I had Brendan and Don come do a thorough Pre Purchase Inspection on my Haines Signature before I bought it.The boys were great and answered all my learner questions and gave me some great general info and tips as well as the report on the boat/motor/trailer.Highly recommended
Tyrone Stewart- GoogleFound Aaron very contactable and seemed to know what to look for such as Transom issues. Price charged is double the price charged in Queensland, but when he is your eyes so far away important when spending a lot of money. Finally I think Sellers should... read moreFound Aaron very contactable and seemed to know what to look for such as Transom issues. Price charged is double the price charged in Queensland, but when he is your eyes so far away important when spending a lot of money. Finally I think Sellers should pay the fee rather then the Buyer as in the last three inspections all buyers mentioned good condition and two of them required transom replacements worth $6k to repair!Tyrone Stewart. read less
- Tyrone Stewart- Google
I found Aaron to be contactable and easy to talk with,although Sydney's prices of inspection is double than Queensland it was money well spent when Sellers think their boat is in good condition. Aaron was my eyes as I live in Brisbane and when you are spending $40k... read moreI found Aaron to be contactable and easy to talk with,although Sydney's prices of inspection is double than Queensland it was money well spent when Sellers think their boat is in good condition. Aaron was my eyes as I live in Brisbane and when you are spending $40k you expect value for money and in this case as it has in the last two inspections Transom replacement costing $6k. Finally I believe that Sellers should provide and pay for the report particularly when they advertise to prospective Buyers their boat is in top condition! read less
- Tristian Mooney- Google
I’ve used plenty of marine surveyors in the past to do inspections on vessels for my clients, once I came across Aaron and his team from boat buy I’ve never used any other surveyor.He is great at what he does and never misses a thing. He has saved my clients... read moreI’ve used plenty of marine surveyors in the past to do inspections on vessels for my clients, once I came across Aaron and his team from boat buy I’ve never used any other surveyor.He is great at what he does and never misses a thing. He has saved my clients on many occasions from buying an absolute lemon.Highly recommend Aaron and his team! 10/10 read less
- Sydney Harbour Escapes Pty Ltd- Google
I have been using BoatBuy for over 5 years, in the which I have purchased 5 boats for my fleet of charter boats from 30 to 105ft. Some of the best customer service I have experienced, with thorough and useful reports. All of the inspections conducted were Marine Survey and... read moreI have been using BoatBuy for over 5 years, in the which I have purchased 5 boats for my fleet of charter boats from 30 to 105ft. Some of the best customer service I have experienced, with thorough and useful reports. All of the inspections conducted were Marine Survey and Mechanical Inspections with oil sampling, with easy to read reports delivered promptly. Hands down, BoatBuy is the best Marine Surveying company you can hire in Australia for a boat inspection! Highly recommended. read less
- Yvette Collins- Google
This is the second time we have used Aaron from BoatBuy and the second time he's saved us.He is the most honest, transparent and knowledgeable expert in his field that we have ever worked with, period.Aaron literally lost money today as he provided us with very clear 'do not purchase'... read moreThis is the second time we have used Aaron from BoatBuy and the second time he's saved us.He is the most honest, transparent and knowledgeable expert in his field that we have ever worked with, period.Aaron literally lost money today as he provided us with very clear 'do not purchase' advice and in doing so he quickly refunded the balance of his inspection fee due to our cancellation to move forward.Aaron advised us not to purchase the boat due to the age of the engines and the fact they and their parts had long been discontinued by the manufacturer making parts and even the specific maintenance skills extremely difficult to find.That says it all really. My advice to you is to not use anyone else in surveying your new boat pre-purchase. Aaron is the best.Antony and Yvette Collins. read less
- Shaun Loaring- Google
I used boat buy to survey and inspect a boat I was looking at purchasing in Sydney. I am an out of state buyer and was unable to be there In person. Don did a great job and was very helpful and informative through both the online report and phone... read moreI used boat buy to survey and inspect a boat I was looking at purchasing in Sydney. I am an out of state buyer and was unable to be there In person. Don did a great job and was very helpful and informative through both the online report and phone conversations. They uploaded current photos onto a folder I could view and provided explanations or picture evidence on everything noted in there reports. I would definitely use BoatBuy again and recommend them to others. read less
- Angela Taranto- Google
If you are looking at purchasing a boat - Aaron should be top of your list to contact. From the very first conversation we had with Aaron - he was super friendly, professional and totally honest. He helped us so much in our quest to find the perfect... read moreIf you are looking at purchasing a boat - Aaron should be top of your list to contact. From the very first conversation we had with Aaron - he was super friendly, professional and totally honest. He helped us so much in our quest to find the perfect boat for us. He helped us understand what we need to be mindful of and made sure we understood exactly what we were looking at. He didn’t leave any detail out when he did the survey on the boat we eventually bought. This makes the seller and buyer comfortable that everything is above board and there are no surprises after you make the final purchase. He even helped us out introducing us to an awesome and amazing Boat Driving Instructor - Tristan at BoatWise - another one we would highly recommend. Even though we have boating experience - moving up to a bigger boat these two have made the transition so easy. read less
- Gus Allouche- Google
When our neighbours were selling their boat to downsize, they told us Aaron from BoatBuy surveyed their boat for the purchasers and said he was incredibly thorough. So when we found the boat we liked, we contacted Aaron and true to form he went over the boat & identified things... read moreWhen our neighbours were selling their boat to downsize, they told us Aaron from BoatBuy surveyed their boat for the purchasers and said he was incredibly thorough. So when we found the boat we liked, we contacted Aaron and true to form he went over the boat & identified things which we were able to use in our negotiations. We are extremely pleased with his service and advice, this process has saved us money & provided us with a piece of mind.We highly recommend Aaron from BoatBuy & it’s a must do for any new purchaser.Gus read less
Julian C- GoogleSome of the best customer service I have experienced. Very prompt, responsive and keen to help in any way they can. Aaron and Don are extremely knowledgeable and provided a very comprehensive report. They are also just all round great guys. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone.
- Alan Chang- Google
I engaged boatbuy after reading about them on the web. Spoke to Aaron a few times about my concerns. I found Aaron to be friendly, matter of fact and systematic. The survey uncovered quite a few problems so I never went ahead with the purchase. The inspection had certainly given... read moreI engaged boatbuy after reading about them on the web. Spoke to Aaron a few times about my concerns. I found Aaron to be friendly, matter of fact and systematic. The survey uncovered quite a few problems so I never went ahead with the purchase. The inspection had certainly given me a clear picture of what I was looking at. Thanks Aaron. read less
- Executive Property Services- Google
It was a very good professional service being a purchaser from another state with COVID restrictions in place Aaron and Don still made it a very easy journey. From day one before even engaging boatbuy to inspect a boat I was already watching all their videos in YouTube of what... read moreIt was a very good professional service being a purchaser from another state with COVID restrictions in place Aaron and Don still made it a very easy journey. From day one before even engaging boatbuy to inspect a boat I was already watching all their videos in YouTube of what to look for when purchasing a boat. I found this seriously very helpful that helped me make a decision to purchase the right one. I hope a lot of viewers get to see this online as knowing if a saltwater service has been completed within the last 2-3 years which is costly have been completed on your vessel that I never even knew beforehand..ThanksRB read less
- Eddie Wong- Google
Luckily I found BoatBuy helping me doing the survey for my first boat. As a first boat buyer I know nothing about boat. The survey report provided by them is absolutely comprehensive and professional.They found the critical issue on Transom Assembly which will cost me $100k to repair.I'll definitely ask... read moreLuckily I found BoatBuy helping me doing the survey for my first boat. As a first boat buyer I know nothing about boat. The survey report provided by them is absolutely comprehensive and professional.They found the critical issue on Transom Assembly which will cost me $100k to repair.I'll definitely ask them for doing another survey on my next boat shopping. read less
Why trust us?
Founded in 2015, we are a marine surveying company operating in NSW and QLD. With over 40 years of collective experience in the Marine Industry, we are a team of dual certified Marine Surveyors and Engineers providing independent boat inspection reports.
We do not sell boats, meaning we can provide unbiased professional advice for our clients. We get the opportunity to review hundreds of boats per year, meaning we’re up to date with all the latest issues and relevant problems arising on boats.
We strive to provide the best reports and highest level of customer service in the industry.
We also offer other services including
Pre-Purchase Marine Surveys
Structural. Mechanical. Expert Advice.
Insurance surveys
Risk evaluations to obtain an insurance policy.