Had 1 done and thought it was worth every penny and was a easy to deal with process from start to finish.

I had only seen the boat on the rack for less than 5min with no keys and never running. Called to Ed Cozzi, he did my Survey and report. In water and out, pics, videos, and break down report. Was professional and made the deal happen. Ended up with a clean and great boat that I saw all of 1 time for less than 5min.

Depending on the cost and size of the boat, most banks now require a survey be done. I personally have not had any of my last 4 boats surveyed. I'm wishing with my current one that I did. It has been one thing after another with it. By the time i'm done with this next repair I will have spent as much money in repairs as i did to buy the boat.

Just received my Ins renewal- They are requiring one now. Had boat almost 10 yrs. Really??

Depends on the results you get and who paid for it.

Most surveys are done to show the boat condition for valuation purposes, for the benefit of the insurance and finance companies They don't usually do a thorough mechanical inspection. Some surveyors do mechanical inspections also, but probably at additional cost based on what you want done. When I was in the boat business we did a lot of buyers checks. These were for the benefit of and paid for by the buyer. They could be as simple as a quick going over and test run, or a very intrusive inspection. Charges were reflective of what was done. A lot of times we would incorporate maintenance with the inspection, once it was established the boat was in reasonable shape. Bottom line is get a good mechanic to inspect the boat.

I'd say it's only worth it if you can find a reputable inspector. I mean someone who is personally recommended not just internet reviews. I did one inspection one time from a guy named Captain Tony I found thanks to the internet and it was a ridiculous waste. he was about as useless as a white crayon. The experience was kind of like a used car salesman showing me around a boat. Even the report was about a 4th grader effort and it was full of mistakes.
Now I had about the worst experience but I'm sure mine isn't the norm.