Power        Sail       Multihull

The sea trial should include:

• Check of Seacocks for open position and all fluid levels.

• Cold start of the engine. If a qualified marine engine mechanic or engine surveyor is present, he will start the engine.   Abnormal exhaust is an indicator that an engine is running abnormally.

• Testing of all equipment while underway.   Items checked underway will give a more accurate assessment.

Powerboat:   The Buyer/Representative Should:

• Have a note pad and pen available to establish a checklist.

• Check all seacocks, propeller and rudder shaftlocks for possible leaks or seepage before and after the sea trial.

• Write down the engine and/or generator hours before and after the sea trial and check its functions.

• Check condition and bilge water level before going underway.

• Listen to the sound of the engine and equipment; evaluate whether any unusual vibration, sound and/or smoke are felt and or visible.

• Check macerator, head and sump pump functions complying with USCG directives.

• Check function of all navigation lights.

• Turn all instruments and electronics on and check their functions.

• If vessel has more than one engine, compare engine instruments with each other.

• When testing auto pilot function, change courses to identify the reaction (* See Auto Pilot manual.)

• Go over the spec sheet and identify which items will stay on board when sail is complete.

• Check galley (kitchen) appliances or have owner and/or his representative show their functions.

• Check Head (toilet) pump systems, holding tank etc.

• Check function of deck equipment; i.e., anchor windlass, davit, automatic searchlight, etc.

• Prepare for haul-out.

Sailboat:   The Buyer/Representative Should:

• Have a note pad and pen available to establish a checklist.

• Check all seacocks for possible leakage before and after the sail.

• Write down the engine/generator hours before and after the sail and check its functions.

• Check condition and bilge water level before going underway.

• Listen to the sound of the engine, whether any unusual vibration or sound is felt.

• Raise the mainsail and Genoa. Inspect the stitches and look for broken and/or sun deteriorated threads and/or consult qualified sail maker.

• Check hank/snap-on for condition foresails and/or furling system. 
  
  How to Check Furling system:
  Hold hand on to the furling track and/or drum, turn either, and when the movement is hard or a roughness of the bearings is felt, it could indicate the bearings should be replaced. Check the condition of furling line, especially where it is connected to the drum.

• Check all running systems i.e. halyards, sheets, etc.

• Checking of reefing points and lines. If one cannot visualize whether or not the correct lines are available, the owner or representative should put the first reef in.

• Turn on navigation and deck lights.

• Check macerator and head functions.

• Turn all instruments and electronics on and check their functions.

• When testing auto pilot function make sure to follow instructions in manual.

• Changing and/or inspect sails (depending on seatrial extent), try maneuvers from close haul to downwind to identify vessel's reaction, also test the vessel with Auto Pilot engaged under sail and under power.

• Go over the spec sheet and identify which items will stay on board when sail is complete.

• Check function of deck equipment; i.e., anchor windlass, davit, remote searchlight, etc.

• Prepare for haul-out when the above is completed.

• Check dagger board and downhaul systems.

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