Connecting your vessel to shore power - information for boat owners and operators

Fire and electrocution are the biggest marina hazard. Lives and property can be at risk. Doing your part to keep your boat’s electrics in order will help keep everyone safe.

1. Ensure you have a valid EWoF

The first thing to know is that marina operators can’t legally supply shore power to a vessel without a current Vessel Electrical Warrant of Fitness (EWoF). 

EWoFs can be obtained from most registered electricians. Your marina office can probably recommend a good one, if needed.

Before you connect please discuss your requirements with the marina office, and provide proof of the vessel’s EWoF. 

About EWoFs

  • To connect your vessel to shore power the vessel must display a current EWoF

  • EWoFs remain current for four years from date of issue

  • As is the case with your motor vehicle WoF, the EWoF only deems the vessel system safe at the time of inspection

  • A lot can happen in four years, so be vigilant and maintain your entire electrical system in good order.

2. Tag & Test

Your power lead should be tagged and tested to help ensure it will protect you against faults.

A number of marinas will also require you to have your supply lead tested and tagged on an annual basis as an added protection against faults, even for temporary connections. This will be a marina policy - adhere to it just like any other policy they have. 

This lead has a clearly visible Tag and Test certificate correctly applied

This lead has a clearly visible Tag and Test certificate correctly applied

3. How to connect to shore power

Before you connect, uncoil your shore power lead and thoroughly inspect it for any mechanical damage such as crushing, kinks, cuts or abrasions. 

Don’t connect to shore power if you find any fault. If you need assistance, check with the marina office.

Setting up your supply lead

  1. Arrange the supply lead ensuring the lead is uncoiled and not causing a tripping hazard. 

  2. Connect the shore power lead to the vessel power socket inlet first, before connecting to marina shore power.

  3. Ensure the socket weatherproofing lock ring is used to prevent water ingress and nuisance tripping.

  4. Test the RCD by using the TEST button. If the RCD does not trip there may be a fault. Disconnect shore power and notify the marina office immediately. 

This lead has a clearly visible Tag and Test certificate correctly applied

This lead has a clearly visible Tag and Test certificate correctly applied

A typical marina power pedestal. Test the RCD (in this case when you press the yellow button the RCD should trip to the off position) each time you connect to shore power. 

A typical marina power pedestal. Test the RCD (in this case when you press the yellow button the RCD should trip to the off position) each time you connect to shore power. 

4. Before turning the power off

  1. Switch OFF the shore supply and disconnect the lead from the marina socket first.

  2. Replace the cover on the marina outlet if one is supplied.

  3. Coil the supply lead and store on board the vessel in a dry area where it won’t be damaged.

  4. Do not leave shore power lead connected and/or coiled in the marina when departing.

Questions and Answers

I only need power for a short time.
Can I just hook up?

An extension lead may be used for short periods to operate small ancillary equipment such as hand power tools, vacuum cleaner or battery charger, provided it is fitted with the correct plug connection. However, the lead must be tested and tagged annually, and a responsible adult is in attendance on the vessel at all times while the lead is plugged in. Should you leave the vessel for any reason, the lead must be unplugged from the shore power supply and put out of the weather.

My marina disconnected my power. Are they allowed to do that?

Electrocution or fire are the biggest safety risk to the marina environment. Any marina management and staff have the right to disconnect any electrical shore power supply from any vessel should they consider it could be dangerous. This includes the lead being left in a way that mechanical damage is likely, or a temporary connection lead has been found unattended. It’s worth noting that management and staff aren’t electrical inspectors and aren’t qualified to engage in any technical discussions, but the can usually recommend a suitable marine electrician to assist you.

What is a Residual Current Device (RCD) 

All Shore Power Supply modules are protected by a Residual Current Device (RCD). This is a device that allows for the quick disconnection of supply should a fault exist. This will give a person the best possible protection against fatal electrical shock. It cannot be said that this will work in every case as there are many variables. 
For your best chance of protection always test your RCD when connecting to a shore supply. 

Should I test the RCD?  

Yes, test the RCD each time you connect to Shore Power. To test, connect shore power, switch on power and press the RCD Test Button. The RCD should trip to the OFF position. If it does NOT trip a dangerous condition MAY exist due to a fault. Disconnect the shore power and notify the marina office.