Acceptance Survey

When a vessel is being delivered, purchased, or brought into charter service, an acceptance survey verifies that she actually is what she’s supposed to be — that she meets the contractual requirements, regulatory standards, and operational condition agreed upon before the deal is done.

The survey begins with a careful review of the contractual agreement to establish exactly what standards apply. From there, we conduct a thorough visual inspection of the hull, superstructure, decks, interior spaces, and systems, documenting anything that falls short of the specified requirements. Safety and lifesaving equipment is checked against applicable regulations, and operational systems are tested under working conditions — machinery trials, navigation equipment, and any other systems relevant to the vessel’s intended use. Where appropriate, a sea trial is carried out to assess real-world performance and handling.

Documentation is reviewed in full: certificates, maintenance records, inspection history, and classification papers where relevant. Everything is checked for accuracy and completeness.

At the end of the process, you receive a clear, detailed report covering all findings — any discrepancies, non-conformities, and recommendations for corrective action. That report is the basis for the acceptance decision. If issues are found, it gives both parties the documented evidence they need to negotiate a resolution before anything is signed off.

An acceptance survey is how you ensure that what you’re taking delivery of is what you agreed to receive.