Situated on the tranquil banks of the River Waveney in Beccles, Hippersons Boatyard is a historic site offering a traditional working environment for river cruisers, inland sailing yachts, and classic craft. Navigating the unique, winding channels of the southern Norfolk Broads requires complete confidence in hull integrity, underwater running gear, and onboard electrical systems.
SafeGuard Marine Survey provides fully independent small craft surveying services directly on-site across the Hippersons Boatyard facility. Whether you require an out-of-water pre-purchase survey, Ultrasonic Thickness (UT) hull gauging on a steel vessel, or an insurance evaluation for a GRP cruiser or traditional timber yacht, our technical audits deliver clear, objective findings with zero commercial ties to local yards or brokers.
Haul-Out & Slipway Capabilities: Equipped with slipway access, winches, and hardstanding facilities for hauling sailing yachts, motor cruisers, and traditional craft out of the water. Out-of-water structural assessments are coordinated alongside yard staff to ensure safe blocking and shoring for full access to the hull bottom, keel assemblies, and underwater running gear.
Surface Preparation & Wash-Down: On-site wash-down facilities allow for the rapid removal of river silt, marine bio-fouling, and loose bottom coatings prior to inspection. Clearing these surfaces ensures clean plate access for accurate ultrasonic transducer coupling during NDT testing and reliable GRP moisture profiling.
Moorings & Site Utilities: Offers access to river moorings and secure hardstanding, supported by boatyard amenities including fresh water points, shore power, and nearby access to local maritime support services, serving as a practical operational base for vessels navigating the Norfolk and Suffolk waterways.