Buying
Vad kostar en båtbesiktning?
Kostnadsintervall för båtbesiktning i EU och Norden — förköp, upptagning och re-besiktning per LOA.
Introduction
A pre-purchase survey is one of the best euros or kronor you spend in a used-yacht deal — but buyers often underestimate the total bill. The surveyor's day rate is only part of it. Haul-out, travel, moisture mapping, engine oil analysis, and re-survey after repairs all sit on top.
This guide gives indicative 2026 ranges for Scandinavian and Baltic buyers on 9–14 m cruising yachts. Use them to budget before you write an offer, not after the seller accepts.
Cross-read what to expect in a yacht survey, our survey checklist, and model context on Hallberg-Rassy HR 36 or Najad 390.
What drives survey cost
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| LOA and complexity | Larger boats, in-mast furling, twin engines, and extensive systems take longer |
| Scope | Full pre-purchase vs insurance vs condition-only |
| Location | Travel time, yard haul-out rates, seasonal demand |
| Access | Frozen seacocks, locked compartments, or incomplete documentation extend time on board |
| Deliverables | Written report only vs verbal debrief + photos + moisture grid |
Independent surveyors (not the seller's friend) are non-negotiable for serious purchases. See broker vs private sale dynamics if the seller pushes back on haul-out timing.
Indicative cost bands (2026, EU / Nordics)
Figures are orientation only — confirm quotes for your boat and region.
| Item | Typical range (EUR) | Typical range (SEK) |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-purchase survey (9–11 m, single day) | 800 – 1,400 | 9,000 – 15,500 |
| Pre-purchase survey (12–14 m, 1–2 days) | 1,200 – 2,200 | 13,500 – 24,500 |
| Haul-out + blocking (seasonal) | 400 – 900 | 4,500 – 10,000 |
| Travel / mileage (surveyor) | 0 – 600 | 0 – 6,700 |
| Oil analysis (engine / gear) | 80 – 200 each | 900 – 2,200 |
| Re-survey after agreed repairs | 400 – 900 | 4,500 – 10,000 |
Rule of thumb: budget 1.0–1.5% of expected purchase price for survey + haul-out + travel on a €80k–€150k cruiser, before you count repair credits from findings.
Hidden costs buyers forget
- Lost deposit window — if survey is delayed, your deposit contract clock may run out; factor calendar risk.
- Yard standby — some yards charge if the boat stays on the hard longer than booked.
- Your travel — flights, hotels, and time off work to attend survey day.
- Follow-up quotes — yard estimates to translate survey findings into negotiation numbers.
- VAT and legal — survey does not replace title and VAT checks.
How to use survey cost in your offer
Build a total acquisition model: purchase price + survey stack + immediate safety work + 12-month reserve. If survey findings exceed your reserve, renegotiate or walk — see reading a survey report.
Share haul-out slots with the seller early. Many deals fail on logistics, not survey findings.
FAQ
Q: Can I skip haul-out to save money?
A: For GRP cruisers over ~25 years, afloat-only surveys miss keel, rudder, and bottom moisture patterns. Most Nordic buyers insist on haul-out for pre-purchase scope.
Q: Does the seller pay for survey?
A: Conventionally the buyer pays the surveyor and haul-out; price negotiation reflects findings. Exception: seller pre-survey for marketing — still commission your own surveyor.
Q: Is insurance survey cheaper?
A: Often narrower scope; insurers may accept recent pre-purchase report if dated and scoped correctly.
Q: How do I find a surveyor?
A: Look for IIMS / YDSA / national association members with experience on your construction type. Ask for sample reports and clarify scope in writing.
Next steps
Prepare viewings with first viewing questions, compare candidates on yacht models, or book buyer advisory for a specific boat.