BEFORE YOU SEND THE DEPOSIT
Ask for measurements, not “deep water.”
Request the depth at mean low water (MLW) at the approach, inside the slip, and over any shoal or channel edge. Ask when and how it was measured. Compare it with your loaded draft, keel or lower-unit position, tide range, and the route you must take to reach open water.
| CHECK | ASK THE HOST | WHY IT MATTERS |
|---|---|---|
| Approach depth | What is the controlling depth at MLW? | A slip can be deep while its entrance is not. |
| Shore power | Is the pedestal 30A or 50A, and when was it checked? | Plug style alone says nothing about wiring condition. |
| Dock hardware | What are cleat backing and rated working loads? | Cleats and pilings must suit the vessel and expected weather. |
| Protection | Is a galvanic isolator installed and tested? | Shore-connected boats need a sound grounding and corrosion plan. |
Inspect shore power before connecting.
Use a properly rated marine shore-power tester to check polarity and the equipment-grounding conductor at the pedestal, then inspect the cord, locking connector, and inlet for heat or corrosion. A simple polarity indicator does not prove the entire system safe. If anything is suspect, do not energize the boat; ask for a qualified inspection.
A galvanic isolator belongs in the vessel’s grounding path and must meet applicable marine standards. It does not fix reversed polarity, a missing safety ground, damaged wiring, or a defective pedestal. Confirm the installation and test status with the owner.
Make the dock part of your trip plan.
Ask about cleat placement, fender boards, piling condition, surge exposure, and whether the dock has seen the expected boat size. If the answers are vague, price a marina berth instead of assuming the rental is a safe berth.
Planning a refit or shore-power inspection? See MarineNutz services and contact Capt. Brody Hendricks →