Surveyors: Association of independent recreational craft surveyors founded

On 17 January 2026, the new Association of Independent Yacht Surveyors (VUSS) was officially founded at the boot Düsseldorf trade fair. The association aims to promote quality assurance and thereby strengthen confidence in the work of its members.

The association sees itself as an independent organisation representing the interests of qualified recreational craft experts. Its central tasks include the development and establishment of uniform quality standards, the promotion of further training and the exchange of expertise between members.

In addition, the professional association wants to act as a competent contact for boat owners, insurance companies, courts, shipyards and authorities and provide support in the selection of suitable experts.

"The market for leisure boat appraisals is growing steadily, while the technical requirements for boats and equipment are increasing at the same time," explained the newly elected chairman, Marcel Fuchs, on the occasion of the foundation. "With the professional association, we are creating a platform that pools expertise and strengthens trust in independent expertises."

Another concern of the association is the promotion of transparency and consumer protection. Clearly defined qualification criteria and ethical principles are intended to ensure that expert opinions are prepared objectively, comprehensibly and in accordance with recognised rules of technology.

When it was founded, the VUSS had around 30 memberships with independent experts specialising in a wide range of fields. The aim of the association is to share this knowledge and pave the way for newcomers to the profession.

The founding of the association is a consequence of the existing "Network of Independent Experts", which was previously an association of recreational boat experts for professional exchange.

The VUSS sees itself as an alternative to the previously established association Der Sportboot- und Schiffbausachverständigen e.V.

The new professional association VUSS is open to qualified recreational craft experts and is already planning its first specialist events. Further information on membership and the aims of the association will soon be available on the Website of the association at www.vuss.eu available. The homepage will be published after formal entry in the register of associations.