Definition
Commissioning is the structured process of preparing a new or significantly refitted boat for handover, covering system testing, sea trials, regulatory registration, owner and crew familiarisation, and the snag-list closeout that follows. It is the bridge between the yard finishing build and the boat entering service.
Background and use
A tender commissioning programme on a typical 8-12m guest tender takes two to four weeks of focused yard and broker time. The work breaks into several phases. First is dock testing: every system (steering, throttle, electrical, navigation, hydraulics, fire suppression) is bench-tested at the dock, with checklists signed off by yard, surveyor, and owner's representative. Second is sea trials, ideally over multiple days and conditions, to verify performance against the build contract specification (top speed at half load, fuel burn at cruise, manoeuvring envelope, noise levels). Third is regulatory: registration, flag formalities, classification handover if classed, VAT clearance, insurance binding.
Crew familiarisation runs in parallel. The mothership crew who will operate the tender need formal handover from the yard's commissioning engineer, covering daily checks, fault-finding, garage handling, and emergency procedures. On more complex builds (carbon limousines, hybrid drivelines, integrated electronics) this can extend to a manufacturer-led training week.
The commissioning phase ends when the snag list is closed. Snags are minor defects identified during trials and the first weeks of use, fixed under warranty. A clean handover with documented snag-list closeout protects both parties and starts the warranty clock cleanly.
Related considerations
- Insist on documented sea-trial results against contract specifications; verbal confirmation is not enough.
- Factor commissioning time into delivery planning; a tender promised "ready May" usually means usable June after commissioning.
- Owner representation on commissioning trials is a worthwhile investment; yards close snags faster when an independent voice is in the room.
- Warranty terms typically start at handover, not contract signing; confirm in writing.
- Crew familiarisation should be filmed or documented; turnover during the season means the next captain inherits the knowledge.