So an update on this process for anyone interested:
Surveyor got on the bought a month and a half ago, but the owner didn't seem to happy to have him poking around. Prior to that, the owner "rejected" the diesel mechanic due to some personal conflict stemming from the mechanic's daughter and the owner's daughter or something. Owner wanted me to use his diesel mechanic (told him not a chance - my guy or nothing).
Fast forward to today - Surveyor has tried several times to reschedule the survey and sea trial, but the owner is non responsive.
Bottom line - not a good feeling, too much small island drama. Unfortunately I think I will be moving on with my search to find a different boat.