How many service pedestals does a marina need?

Short answer: a marina usually needs one service pedestal for every two berths. Where berths are small and closely spaced, one four-outlet pedestal can serve four berths, which roughly halves the count. The exact number depends on berth layout, boat sizes and whether each berth gets its own metered outlet.

Start from the berths, not the pontoons

Every berth needs at least one power outlet and one water tap within reach of a standard shore-power cable. The usual layout places one pedestal between two neighbouring berths on the finger pier or main pontoon, so both boats plug into the same unit.

A simple first estimate: number of pedestals ≈ number of berths ÷ outlets per pedestal. For a 200-berth marina with two-outlet pedestals, that gives about 100 units. Using four-outlet pedestals for the smaller berths brings the total down.

Boat size decides the outlet rating

Larger boats need higher-rated sockets, and higher ratings take more space inside the pedestal. Typical practice:

• Boats up to about 12 m: 16 A, 230 V

• About 12–18 m: 32 A, 230 V

• About 18–30 m: 63 A, 400 V

• Superyachts: 125 A to 250 A, 400 V

Most marinas mix ratings across their pontoons. Small-boat pontoons often use four 16 A outlets per pedestal, while superyacht berths may need a dedicated pedestal per berth.

Metering changes the count

If the marina charges each boat for its own electricity and water, every berth needs its own metered socket and tap. With Meqtec's prepaid system, each user is assigned one socket and one tap, so the outlet count equals the number of berths you bill separately. Shared outlets without metering need fewer units but give up per-boat billing.

Other points to plan for

• Spare capacity: add a few units or outlets for future berths, visiting boats and replacements.

• Safety pedestals: fire and rescue points (extinguisher, hose, lifebuoy) are planned separately along the pontoons, following local fire regulations.

• Lighting: pedestals with integrated lighting can reduce or replace separate pontoon lights.

Get a recommended configuration

Send Meqtec your berth count, boat sizes and pontoon layout. We recommend the number of pedestals, the outlet mix and the right model, usually within one working day. See the full range on the Marina Series page or contact us.

Related guides: What determines pedestal price?, How RFID prepayment works and What IP ratings mean. See all marina pedestal guides.