The Sea Trial 
Written by Captain Stanley G. Konz, A.M.S. 

A sea trial is part of the professional vessel survey performed by Maritime Vessel
Surveying, Inc., i.e. does  not have any extra fees or costs involved for this service 
when a full vessel survey is requested. 

The sea trial involves not only performance testing the vessel and its engines, but 
is also the time when many major systems are checked out.   It can be crucial in 
discovery of potential problems with the vessels operating mechanics and instru-
mentation. 

On the sea trial, not only is the engine and overall vessel performance evaluated, 
but we test the steering, controls, shafting, engine mounts and exhaust systems. 
We also examine structural hull elements while under load. On sailboats, the overall 
sailing systems are tested and evaluated for condition and proper tuning as well as 
reviewing the full compliment of sails for signs of stress or damage. 

There are a lot of things that need to be looked at in a short period of time. Therefore, 
at the very minimum, we recommend that an open water sea trial be carried out for 
at least one hour's duration, but longer for larger yachts. Short runs in restricted 
waterways will not accomplish this objective. This is one of the logistics questions 
that needs to be considered when making arrangements for the survey. 

Open ocean trial runs are recommended, whenever possible. However, when sea conditions are rough, we have to defer to the seller's discretion because of the liability 
risks that could be raised by taking the vessel out in rough water. If necessary, the sea 
trial portion of the survey can be re-scheduled under these circumstances.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. 
Captain Stanley G. Konz, A.M.S. 
Captstan@boatquotes.com
Maritime Vessel Surveying, Inc. 
1-800-576-9116