In August 2020 we were contacted by Robert L., who is based in Ramsey, Isle of Man. We were asked to support in finding the right sailing vessel for recreational sailing for Robert and family. The key criteria was to source a vessel for extended cruising in the Irish Sea, English coast, and Baltic Sea regions.

Several leading requirements were identified
- Condition of the vessel
- Length
- Model
- Berth
- Owner
- Price
In collaboration with the customer, we looked at several sailing vessel options, including; Bavaria, Beneteau, Westerley, and Halberg-Rassey. We found one vessel in September / October 2020, but it was very quickly under offer and off the market. We continued our search.
In December 2020 we found POPPY OF ORWELL, a Westerly Oceanlord 41 ft, offered by the yacht broker Fox’s Yachts, located in Ipswich. Robert made an offer, which lead to a Pre-Purchase Survey as part of the agreement.
Poppy of Orwell
On Saturday 9th January, we carried out a Pre-Purchase Survery. The weather was ideal ⏤ sunny, dry and 3°C in Ipswich. POPPY OF ORWELL was on dry dock. Whilst going through the well-prepared Pre-Purchase Survey checklist and noting down the details, we did a live video call with Robert, thoroughly reviewing each part of the vessel.


We continued under deck with the cabins, toilets, engine, safety equipment, gas supply, domestic interior, firefighting equipment, electric installation, navigation equipment, bilge, with pumps and batteries.


Insurance Survey
Robert required an Insurance Survey for an insurance underwriter. Having gone through a detailed inspection checklist throughout the day onboard POPPY OF ORWELL, we had gathered all necessary information.
Valuation Survey
The Valuation Survey required further market research, which we had completed during the search and comparison phase, taking into account the price, vessel age, vessel model and the condition.