If you are not completely satisfied with the vessel, it is imperative that you communicate your concerns to enable the dealer and builder to respond and resolve your issues or concerns swiftly and professionally.
Like most new purchases, yacht builders offer consumer protection and guarantees to ensure your boat is delivered as requested and in perfect working order. However, a yacht's complexity means that there may be issues with the build, finish, or specification, causing delivery times to be delayed.
Pre-Delivery Inspection and Handover
As part of your new yacht's delivery process, you can expect a full handover, whereby the selling dealer or builder walks you through all areas of the yacht and its onboard systems. Prior to this, the yacht will have also had a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) to make sure it is ready for your ownership.
Often, issues with the yacht are found during the PDI process and are subsequently sorted or fixed. Smaller matters will be fixed without you ever knowing, however, larger faults may mean a delay in delivery which will be communicated to you by the dealer or builder.
The PDI and handover mean that it is highly unlikely any issue will be missed prior to you officially taking delivery. However, if you are dissatisfied with the quality, specification, or construction of your new yacht, you should contact your dealer or builder immediately to discuss the issues. Most matters can be resolved, but the most important thing is to communicate your concerns and to expect these concerns to be treated seriously.
During the handover, if you are unhappy with the yacht in any way, then you should not take ownership and ask for the issue to be resolved before accepting delivery."
Survey Support
A surveyor will usually be employed for large yacht builds (above 30m/98ft), joining the build team and following the process through to delivery.
For 10m-30m (32ft-98ft) yachts, a surveyor will rarely be employed; with the dealer expected to ensure the yacht is delivered as required and to handle any after-sales issues. However, if you are concerned about an area of the yacht's build or finish, and do not feel this concern is being treated fairly or seriously, you can employ a surveyor to support and substantiate the matter.
Defects and Issues
Delayed Delivery
Not exactly a defect, but a delayed delivery can be upsetting, especially if it reduces or cancels a season on the water. Any delay to delivery should be communicated to you so you can at least plan ahead.
Larger yacht contracts can include delayed refund payments, but most often the buyer simply has to accept a longer wait. In most cases, this will be weeks rather than months.
Incorrect Specification
Given the complexity of a modern yacht, it is possible that an area of the specification is missed or incorrectly fitted. It is highly unlikely that this issue would be missed either from the PDI or the handover, but if you find a problem with the specification post-delivery, simply contact the dealer and the matter should be easily resolved.
Performance Issues
It is possible that your 30 knot yacht is only able to make 27 knots, or that there is a vibration that occurs at a certain speed. This should be reported at once and will require specialist attention.
With modern hull design and excellent relationships between engine and yacht manufacturers, it is scarce for this type of issue to occur, and even rarer if it can't be fixed.
Build Defects
Incredibly unlikely, and even more so that it would be missed by the PDI, a build defect or issue with the finish should be reported to the selling dealer or builder immediately. You should expect an immediate and constructive response in return, followed by an inspection.
In almost all cases, a defect can be resolved but may require the yacht to return to the factory.
Summary
The excitement and anticipation surrounding delivery day is undeniable, but it's also a time when potential issues can arise. From unforeseen technical glitches to scheduling hiccups, being prepared for these challenges is key to ensuring a smooth handover.
While challenges may surface, they need not dampen the joy of acquiring your new vessel. By addressing these issues proactively, with the help of your dealer or builder, you can embark on your yachting journey with confidence and peace of mind, ready to enjoy the horizons that await.
