Yacht Surveyor Lyndon March Sat Aboard an Historic Craft after an Survey

Yacht & Marine Surveys Across the South East & East Coast

“If you’re not sure what type of survey you need, just get in touch — we’re happy to advise.”

Photograph by James Robinson

March & Co Marine Ltd provides independent yacht surveys and small craft surveys throughout the South East, East Coast and across the UK. Whether you require a pre-purchase survey, insurance survey, condition survey or damage assessment, we provide clear, evidence-based reporting supported by practical boatbuilding and restoration experience.

We undertake surveys on sailing yachts, motor yachts, motorboats, houseboats and a wide range of small craft, covering vessels constructed from GRP, steel, aluminium, timber and composite materials. We also have specialist knowledge of traditional wooden vessels, classic yachts and historic craft.

Every marine survey is carried out using a practical, experience-led approach, combining professional surveying standards with hands-on marine industry knowledge. This allows us to accurately assess vessel condition, identify defects and maintenance requirements, and provide clear, reliable advice for owners, buyers and insurers.

  • A thorough and independent assessment of a vessel's condition before purchase. Pre-purchase surveys identify defects, maintenance requirements and potential future costs, helping buyers make informed decisions and negotiate with confidence before committing to a purchase.

  • Condition surveys provide a comprehensive assessment of a vessel's overall condition, structure and systems. Suitable for owners, insurers and prospective buyers seeking an independent report on maintenance requirements, defects and general seaworthiness.

  • Insurance surveys provide an independent assessment of a vessel's condition, seaworthiness and maintenance standards. Commonly required for new policies and renewals, they help insurers evaluate risk while highlighting any significant defects or recommendations.

  • Damage surveys assess the extent and cause of damage following collision, grounding, impact, fire or severe weather. Detailed findings and repair recommendations help owners, insurers and repairers understand the work required to restore the vessel.

  • Valuation surveys establish the fair market value of a vessel based on its condition, specification, maintenance history and current market trends. Suitable for sale, finance, probate, insurance and other situations requiring an independent valuation.

  • Wooden boat surveys provide a detailed assessment of traditional timber vessels, classic yachts and heritage craft. Drawing on practical boatbuilding experience, inspections focus on timber condition, structural integrity, repairs and long-term maintenance requirements.

  • Inland waterway surveys assess the condition of narrowboats, barges and other inland craft. Particular attention is given to hull condition, corrosion, structural integrity and onboard systems, helping owners, buyers and insurers make informed decisions.

Yacht & Small Craft Survey Coverage

March & Co Marine Ltd undertakes independent yacht surveys and small craft surveys throughout the South East, East Coast and wider UK. We regularly carry out pre-purchase surveys, insurance surveys, condition surveys and damage assessments from Southampton and the Solent, through the Thames Estuary, and north along the East Coast towards Lincolnshire.

Our core operating area includes Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, London, Hertfordshire, Hampshire, East Sussex and West Sussex, allowing us to provide efficient and cost-effective marine survey services across both coastal and inland waters. We work with private owners, prospective buyers, insurers and marine professionals, delivering clear, evidence-based reporting supported by practical boatbuilding and restoration experience.

While much of our work is concentrated within these regions, we are happy to undertake yacht and marine survey work anywhere in the United Kingdom. For surveys outside our core operating area, reasonable travel and accommodation expenses may apply. Any additional costs are always discussed and agreed in advance, ensuring complete transparency and no unexpected charges

“Why Chose March & Co Marine?”

Unlike many marine surveyors, our recommendations are informed by practical experience in boatbuilding, restoration, finishing works and vessel maintenance.

Visual

Every survey begins with a careful, methodical visual inspection of the vessel from bow to stern, including the hull, deck, structure, rigging, machinery spaces, and onboard systems. Attention is paid to both obvious and hidden areas, using hands-on experience to identify potential concerns before moving to further testing or assessment.

Practical

Where appropriate, objective testing and practical assessment are carried out, including moisture readings, structural probing, and close inspection of known weak points for the vessel type and construction. These checks help distinguish cosmetic defects from issues that may affect safety, value, or long-term maintenance requirements.

Systems

The vessel is then reviewed as a complete, working system, considering how components interact, the quality of maintenance, accessibility for repairs, and the practicality of ongoing upkeep. This approach provides a realistic picture of overall condition and highlights both current concerns and potential future issues that may need attention.

Reports

Finally, all findings are brought together in a clear, structured report, providing impartial, easy-to-understand advice tailored to the client’s needs. Recommendations are prioritised, and further guidance is offered to help clients make informed decisions about purchase, insurance, maintenance, or repairs

Ready to Arrange a Survey?

Planning to buy a boat, renew insurance or assess a vessel's condition? Contact March & Co Marine Ltd to discuss your requirements. We provide independent yacht and small craft surveys throughout the South East, East Coast and across the UK, delivering practical advice, clear communication and professional reporting you can rely on.

Close-up view looking up at the side of a sailboat with a large red sail and a small red flag, against a cloudy sky.