Boat Sea Trials - Test Your Boat’s Real Performance
A boat can look perfect on paper and even pass a pre-purchase survey with flying colors, but how does it actually perform on the water? A boat sea trial is where the rubber (or rather, the hull) meets the road—or the waves, in this case. It’s your chance to uncover issues that no amount of dockside inspection can reveal.
Does the engine start easily, and does it run smoothly under load? Is there excessive vibration or noise? Are there steering quirks or delays that could make docking a nightmare? Do the electronics function as promised in real-world conditions? How does the boat handle in choppy water or at different speeds? A sea trial checklist goes through all of these checkpoints and more.
Think of it like test-driving a car—you wouldn’t buy one without taking it for a spin, right? A sea trial provides critical insight into whether the boat truly lives up to your expectations and is suitable for your intended use. It’s not just about making sure everything works; it’s about making sure everything works for you. Don’t skip this boat sea trial—it’s your last, best opportunity to confirm that your dream vessel is the real deal.
Service Areas
Based in Toronto serving marinas and boatyards from Niagara to Pickering, Muskokas, Simcoe and the Kawarthas.

Importance of Sea Trials When Buying a Boat
Why Are Sea Trials Important?
Ship sea trials provide insights into the vessel’s performance under real-world conditions. This is crucial for buyers assessing a boat’s functionality or current owners addressing performance concerns.
Who Needs a Sea Trial?
Prospective buyers, boat owners preparing for long voyages, or those troubleshooting performance issues are ideal candidates for a sea trial boat.
Why Choose Kiki Marine?
Your Trusted Partner in Marine Safety and Value
- Certified Expertise: ABYC-certified and SAMS® member.
- Comprehensive Inspections: Covering structural, mechanical, electrical, and safety systems.
- Local Knowledge: Based in Toronto serving marinas and boatyards from Niagara to Pickering, Muskokas, Simcoe and the Kawarthas.
- Fast, Reliable Reporting: Get your survey results within 48-72 hours.
FAQs
What happens during a sea trial?
During a sea trial procedure, I evaluate propulsion, handling, engine performance, and navigation systems in real-world conditions.
Can I add a sea trial to another service?
Yes, ship sea trials can be included as part of a pre-purchase or insurance survey.
How long does a sea trial take?
It takes 3 to 6 hours to conduct a test. Your sea trial report is typically delivered within 5 business days.
Get in Touch with Kiki Marine
Have questions? Ready to book your survey? Contact us today!
- 647-289-7876
- info@kikimarine.ca