Glossary
Sea Trial
Definition: A sea trial is a vessel's performance test at sea. Performed before newbuild delivery, during pre-purchase survey, after refit, and during class surveys. Speed, manoeuvring, systems performance, and fuel consumption are verified under real conditions.
What's tested
- Speed: contracted speed (e.g. service speed in kn)
- Manoeuvring: turning circle, stopping distance
- Main engine performance: full power + cruise
- Generator + electrical system load test
- Navigation + communication equipment
- HVAC, bilge, watermaker systems
- Fuel consumption measurement
Newbuild sea trial
The shipbuilding contract's performance guarantees are verified at sea trial:
- Speed guarantee fails: liquidated damages
- High fuel consumption: compensation
- Material failure: delivery rejection
Pre-purchase sea trial
Buyer + surveyor together:
- Does declared performance match reality?
- Are systems functioning properly?
- Findings feed into MOA negotiation