Boat Delivery To Your Winnipesaukee Dock: Easy Summer Sailing

Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire is a boating paradise. It is the largest lake in the state, spanning 72 square miles and comprising 250-plus islands. The lake is a popular holiday destination, with numerous activities on offer, from exploring quiet coves to enjoying water sports. For those who don't have their own boat, rentals are available, and for those who want to sit back and relax, boat tours are also an option.

If you're looking to have a boat delivered to your dock on Lake Winnipesaukee, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, check with the rental company if they offer delivery services, as some companies may have restrictions due to insurance regulations. Secondly, ensure that you have a valid boating certificate if the boat you're renting has a motor exceeding 25 horsepower. This certificate can be obtained through a quick exam administered by the rental company or online.

So, whether you're an experienced boater or a novice, Lake Winnipesaukee offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Don't forget to familiarise yourself with the lake's navigation system, as it's easy to get disoriented among the hundreds of islands.

Boat rental requirements

To rent a boat on Lake Winnipesaukee, you must meet certain requirements. Firstly, age is a key factor, as most rental companies require the renter and driver to be at least 21 years old. Additionally, a valid picture driver's license is necessary.

If you plan to rent a boat with a motor exceeding 25 horsepower, you must possess a boating safety certificate. This could be a Boating Certificate from NASBLA or the State of New Hampshire. Alternatively, if renting from a company, they may offer a 14-day temporary certificate that you can obtain for a small fee by taking an exam on-site.

It is important to note that you are responsible for any damage to the boat and gear during the rental period. You will also be required to pay for all fuel and oil used. Some companies may have additional requirements or restrictions, so it is always a good idea to review their policies before renting.

Docking options

There are several docking options available on Lake Winnipesaukee. Public docks can be found at Dockside, Mast Landing, Back Bay, and the Libby Museum. Docking at these locations is free of charge and there is no time limit, however, overnight stays are not permitted.

Several town docks also allow boaters to tie up for free for several hours. For example, the town docks in Meredith have a 3-hour docking limit. Additionally, some lakeside motels provide dockage for customers, such as Proctor's Lakehouse Cottages and the Lazy E Motor Inn.

If you're looking for a more permanent docking solution, slips and moorings are available for rent at various locations around the lake. For instance, the Center Harbor Inn offers docks for $65 per night, with moorings available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. The Wolfeboro Corinthian Yacht Club is another option, offering private club membership with fuel available for sale.

It's important to note that anchoring overnight is prohibited on Lake Winnipesaukee. Additionally, docking and parking regulations can vary depending on the town and specific location, so it's always a good idea to check ahead of time.

If you're renting a boat, it's worth noting that some rental companies, such as Winnisquam Marine, offer the convenience of overnight docking for multi-day rentals. This can be a great option if you're planning to explore the lake over multiple days.

Boating certificate options

If you're looking to get out on the water in Lake Winnipesaukee, there are a few boating certificate options available to you. Here are the steps you can take to obtain the necessary certification:

• Obtain a Boating Certificate from NASBLA or the State of New Hampshire: This is a requirement if you plan to rent a boat with over 25 horsepower. The certificate can be obtained by taking an online course or an in-person course, followed by an exam. The State of New Hampshire accepts certificates from other state agencies and those approved by NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators).
• Take a temporary 14-day certificate test at a marina: Some marinas, such as Winnisquam Marine, offer the option to take a temporary 14-day boater's certificate test. The test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 25 minutes. The cost is typically around $20, and it is recommended to review the NH Boaters Guide beforehand.
• Obtain a Boating Safety Certificate: The State of New Hampshire requires all boat operators to carry proof of boating education when operating a boat with a motor in excess of 25 horsepower. You can obtain a Boating Safety Certificate by taking an online course or an in-person course, followed by an exam. This certificate is valid forever and does not expire.
• Rent a boat without a certificate: If you don't have a boating certificate, you can still enjoy Lake Winnipesaukee by renting a boat with 25 horsepower or less. Some rental companies, such as Winnisquam Marine, offer pontoon boats that do not require a boating certificate to operate.

It's important to note that the requirements and options for boating certificates may vary from state to state. Always check with the local regulations and the rental company to ensure you have the necessary certification to operate a boat on Lake Winnipesaukee.

Lake Winnipesaukee's history

Lake Winnipesaukee, located in New Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The lake, formed by glaciers over 10,000 years ago, sits 504 feet above sea level and covers an area of 69 to 72 square miles, making it the largest lake in the state and the third-largest in New England. The lake's name is derived from the Abenaki or Winnipesaukee people, a subtribe of the Pennacook, who lived and fished at a village called Acquadocton, now known as The Weirs. The name "Winnipesaukee" means either "smile of the Great Spirit" or "beautiful water in a high place".

The lake has been a popular tourist destination for over a century, attracting visitors from Boston, New York City, and beyond. It offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The lake is known for its clear water and magnificent views, surrounded by small towns and resorts, such as Wolfeboro, which bills itself as the ""Oldest Summer Resort in America".

The history of human activity around Lake Winnipesaukee goes back thousands of years. The area was once inhabited by the Winnipesaukee Indians, a branch of the Abnaki Tribes Confederacy. They lived in the village of Aquedoctan, which was discovered by colonists around 1632. The Winnipesaukee Indians eventually left the area in 1696 due to expected assaults by Colonial ranging parties and settled in St. Francis, Quebec. However, some families continued to visit Lake Winnipesaukee until the early 20th century.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Winnipesaukee has played a significant role in transportation and commerce. The paddlesteamer MS Mount Washington, launched in 1872, carried mail, goods, and passengers on the lake under the flag of the Boston and Maine Railroad. The lake was also the site of the first intercollegiate sporting event in the United States, with Harvard defeating Yale in the first Harvard-Yale Regatta in 1852.

Today, Lake Winnipesaukee remains a popular destination for boating, swimming, and other recreational activities. The lake is known for its clear water and scenic views, surrounded by small towns, resorts, and natural attractions. The MS Mount Washington continues to operate, offering tours and dinner cruises during the summer season. The lake is also home to a diverse ecosystem, including loons, otters, beavers, muskrat, mink, and various fish species.

Lake activities

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake, offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some ideas for things to do on and around the lake:

• Boat tours: Take a boat tour of the lake to get a closer look at the stunning scenery. Options include the M/S Mount Washington, a first-class vessel offering scenic cruises, and the Mailboat M/V Sophie C, one of only two floating post offices in the United States.
• Water sports: For those who want to get out on the water, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Boat rentals are also available for those who want to explore the lake at their own pace.
• Hiking: Mount Major, located in Alton, offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding region from its 1,786-foot-high summit. The mountain has well-marked trails suitable for hikers of all ages and experience levels.
• Museums: The region is home to several museums, including the Wright Museum of WWII, the New Hampshire Boat Museum, and the Libby Museum of Natural History. These museums offer a glimpse into the area's rich history and cultural heritage.
• Outdoor recreation: Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford offers year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, snow tubing, and ziplining in the winter, and mountain biking and scenic lift rides in the warmer months.
• Entertainment: Funspot, the world's largest arcade, is located in Laconia and features over 600 games, a bowling alley, mini-golf, and more. For a more relaxed evening, the Weirs Beach Drive-In Movie Theater is a unique seasonal cinema that has been airing fan favourites since 1949.
• Dining: Lake Winnipesaukee offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining experiences. Garwood's Restaurant, The Wolfetrap, and Lydia's Cafe are popular choices for visitors looking to sample the local cuisine.
• Shopping: Wolfeboro, one of the towns surrounding the lake, offers a variety of shopping options, including boutiques, antique shops, and local markets.

Frequently asked questions