Ogden & Associates

Superyacht Surveyors On The French & Italian Riviera And Worldwide

Welcome To Our Web Site

Qualified and experienced Marine Surveyors and Consultant Naval Architects providing all yacht surveying and consultancy services, for all size vessels on the French and Italian Riviera and worldwide. We are also level 1 Nominated Surveyors of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) through the YDSA Certifying Authority to conduct MCA Code of Compliance Examinations and Tonnage Measurements. We can produce Stability Information books for vessels of all sizes.

Founded by Eric Ogden about 30 years ago, our company has provided thousands of surveys.

Services we provide

The different types of Surveys.

The purpose of a survey is to determine, within limitations of visual and physical accessibility, through non-destructive means, the condition of the vessel's structure and systems. The survey is based solely on a careful visual inspection of all accessible portions of its structure and available equipment. Certain parts of the hull structure, equipment, machinery, and systems can be inspected only by removal of flats, bulkheads, headliners, tanks, and joiner work. This would be destructive in nature, prohibitively time-consuming and expensive to restore, and therefore, is not done. A complete Condition or Pre-purchase survey includes:

An afloat inspection including test operation of equipment, systems and appliances, with inspection of the internal structure and accessible structural components.
A sea trial to evaluate the performance of the vessel, systems and machinery.
An ashore inspection to check the hull structural integrity, the condition of the stern gear and appendages.

Pre-Purchase Surveys

This is the most comprehensive type of inspection and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used yacht. The condition and overall operation of the yacht should be examined, including items such as structural integrity, out-of-water inspection, sea trial, electrical systems, navigation systems, propulsion system, fuel system, machinery, electronics, appearance, and overall maintenance.

Insurance Surveys

This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the yacht is an acceptable risk. They are interested in structural integrity and safety for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on older yachts. They will also want to know the yacht's fair market value.

New Build Supervision And Pre-Delivery Surveys

We periodically attend during the build to ensure that our client will take delivery of a properly constructed vessel which conforms to the agreed specifications and drawings.

Valuation Surveys

This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations, and legal cases.

Damage Surveys

This is performed to assess the extent of damage, recommended repairs, estimate repair costs, and if requested, the probable cause.

Stability Assessments

We carry out stability assessments and prepare Stability Information Booklets for vessels of all sizes and types.

Yacht Risk Assessment Survey

A Yacht Risk Assessment Survey is intended to provide the Owners and Managers with sufficient information on the vessel condition, maintenance, crew qualification and experience, safety management system and estimated value of a yacht to enable Underwriters or Finances companies to determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk.The basic principle of risk assessment is a careful examination of what could cause harm to personnel, own vessel, other vessels and the environment.

The Survey Report

Our report is issued no later than 5 working days after the inspection date. It is written in a simple, easy-to-read style and includes photographs and/or drawings. The report lists findings and recommendations for the items to be corrected prior to operating the vessel for its intended use. The conclusion is our opinion of the general condition of the vessel. Comprehensive and detailed reports are written in English or French.