Leopard 38: Shore Power Connections

[hikersailor]

I have considered switching to the newer Smart Plug design as it is a much better design that what is currently used and has been around since 1938. However, I am considering just doing away with the whole connection issue and just wiring a 50' shore cord directly to my vessels current wires at the shore plug in a junction box located inside the engine compartment hatch. The cord would reside just inside the hatch and exit thru a slot in the combing of the hatch with a weather proof collar so he line could just be placed entirely inside while not being used. Smart Plug with connection at boat would be over $200 Versus $10 or so to located inside. Any thoughts?