Ship power systems are characterised by a comparatively high level of various power quality disturbances, such as voltage deviations, frequency deviations, voltage waveform distortions and sometimes voltage unbalance, which exert a detrimental effect on energy receivers. Among other things, power quality disturbances may cause an extraordinary increase in power losses occurring in on-board induction motors as well as ineffective utilisation of their mechanical output power. In this study, the results of empirical research which demonstrates how power quality disturbances in real ship microgrids affect induction motors are shown. The results of power quality monitoring in ship power systems from the point of view of the energy-efficient operation of induction motors are presented for various vessels and operating conditions. Recommendations concerning the revision of power quality standards and rules are elaborated to provide more energy-efficient ship operation.