- Pre-Purchase Surveys The Surveyor is hired by the buyer. This Survey can be done with or with out a sea trial; in or out of the water. This type of survey is very detailed and usually includes additional equipment that is understood will be sold with the vessel. Examples of additional equipment Tenders, outboards, water toys, galley equipment etc.. would be inspected for type, model, and condition. The buyer would be provided with a detail report of the inspected vessel.