We have found a boat that appears to fit our plans and are preparing for the survey and sea trial. What catamaran-specific areas deserve extra attention, and which questions helped you understand the difference between a manageable project and a costly surprise?
Ask the surveyor to pay special attention to bridge-deck and bulkhead connections, moisture around deck hardware, rudder bearings, saildrives, standing rigging and evidence of grounding on both hulls. During the sea trial, operate every system under load and note engine temperatures and charging behavior—not just whether equipment switches on.
Before the survey, send the surveyor the listing and your intended use. A good survey becomes more valuable when the person knows you plan to cross oceans, charter the boat or remain coastal. Attend in person, take your own notes, and ask which findings are safety issues versus normal age-related maintenance.
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