Best Boat Launch Spots On The Delaware River

If you're looking to put your boat in on the Delaware River, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, Delaware law requires the registration of all motorboats, including those powered by electric motors, if Delaware is its state of principal use. You can register your boat online, by mail, or in person at one of the Delaware boat registration agents. It's important to keep your boat registration up to date, as it provides identification for the return of stolen or found boats and helps locate people involved in boating accidents.

When it comes to putting your boat in, there are several access points along the Delaware River. Some popular spots include Ridley Marina, Burlington City ramp, Penn's Landing, and Dredge Harbor in Delran, NJ. These areas also offer opportunities for skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. In addition, there are restaurants and bars with docks along the river, such as Curtins Wharf in Burlington, NJ, and the Chesepeake Inn on the C&D Canal.

It's important to keep in mind the safety regulations when boating on the Delaware River. The DNREC Office of Boating Safety and Education provides resources and courses to promote safe and responsible boating. All persons born on or after January 1, 1978, must complete a boating safety course before operating a motorized boat in Delaware. Additionally, it is illegal and dangerous to operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Tidal access areas administered by the Division of Fish and Wildlife

You can register your boat in several ways. Firstly, you can fill out and return a boat registration application. Secondly, you can register in person at one of the Delaware boat registration agents. These agents include:

• Carlisle’s Marine in Smyrna
• Cedar Creek Marina in Milford
• Taylor Marine in Milford
• DNREC Boat Registration Division of Fish and Wildlife in Dover
• TideRunners Bait & Tackle in Lewes
• Pontoon Express in Harbeson
• And more

Boat Ramp Certificates can be purchased online or in person from the Delaware boat registration agents. Alternatively, you can print, complete, and mail in a boat ramp certificate application.

Delaware Coastal Cleanup

Delaware's ocean and bay waters, rivers, lakes, and ponds offer many opportunities for boating. The state has several programs in place to ensure safe and responsible boating, including the Delaware Coastal Cleanup initiative.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is responsible for the Delaware Coastal Cleanup program, which aims to keep the state's waterways clean and safe for all to enjoy. DNREC provides resources and guidance to boat owners to ensure they comply with registration requirements and safety regulations.

Boat Registration

All motorboats launched from tidal access areas administered by the Division of Fish and Wildlife must be registered in Delaware or have a valid Tidal Access Boat Ramp Certificate. Delaware law requires the registration of all motorboats, including those powered by electric motors, if Delaware is their state of principal use. This applies to both residents and non-residents who use the state's waterways for more than 60 days or dock their boats in Delaware waters for an extended period.

Boating Safety

The DNREC Office of Boating Safety and Education promotes safe and responsible boating practices through educational programs and partnerships with organizations such as the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons. They offer boating safety courses and provide resources like the Handbook of Delaware Boating Laws and Responsibilities to help boaters understand the state's laws and regulations.

Boating Access Locations

DNREC provides a list of authorized boat registration sales outlets and agents throughout Delaware, where individuals can obtain both boat registrations and boat ramp certificates. These locations include:

• DNREC Boat Registration Office in Dover
• Carlisle’s Marine in Smyrna
• Cedar Creek Marina in Milford
• Taylor Marine in Milford
• TideRunners Bait & Tackle in Lewes
• Pontoon Express in Harbeson
• Cedar Creek Marine Center in Seaford
• Hook ‘em And Cook ‘em in Rehoboth
• Shorts Marine in Millsboro
• WMF Powersports in Millsboro
• Lingo Marine in Millsboro
• Rudy Marine in Dagsboro
• Bayside Jet Drive in Oceanview
• HC Outfitters in Bethany Beach
• Midlantic Marine Center in Selbyville
• North Bay Marina in Selbyville
• RT 113 Boat Sales in Selbyville
• Island Watersports in Fenwick Island

By providing these resources and education, DNREC's Delaware Coastal Cleanup program helps ensure that Delaware's waterways are enjoyed safely and responsibly by all.

Boating safety courses

Boating in Delaware offers a range of opportunities, from ocean and bay waters to rivers, lakes, and ponds. To ensure safe and responsible boating, the state has several regulations and safety measures in place. One key requirement is boat registration. Delaware law mandates the registration of all motorboats, including those powered by electric motors, if Delaware is the state of principal use. This means that motorboats launched from tidal access areas managed by the Division of Fish and Wildlife must be registered in Delaware or have a valid Tidal Access Boat Ramp Certificate. Registration helps with boat security, locating boats involved in accidents, and identifying vessels requesting assistance or violating laws.

In addition to registration, Delaware emphasizes the importance of boating safety education. The Office of Boating Safety and Education plays a crucial role in this regard. They offer educational programs aimed at developing individual awareness, skills, and a commitment to safe and responsible boating behaviour. These programs are designed to make students aware of state laws pertaining to safety violations and how to prevent them while still enjoying the state's waterways.

• Navigation Rules and Regulations: Understanding and adhering to navigation rules are crucial for safe boating. Students learn about speed limits, right-of-way procedures, and how to navigate busy waterways safely. This includes knowledge of buoys, markers, and other navigational aids.
• Boating Safety Equipment: Boaters need to know the essential safety equipment required on their vessels. This includes life jackets, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, and a first aid kit. Students are taught how to inspect and maintain this equipment to ensure it is in proper working condition.
• Emergency Preparedness and Response: Knowing what to do in an emergency is vital. Boating safety courses cover topics such as man-overboard procedures, capsizing and flooding response, and how to call for assistance using marine radio or other communication devices. Students also learn about the legal requirements and responsibilities when involved in a boating accident.
• Weather and Water Conditions: Understanding weather patterns and their impact on boating is essential. Students are taught how to interpret weather forecasts, recognize signs of changing weather, and make informed decisions about when it is safe to venture out on the water. This includes identifying hazardous conditions like strong winds, storms, and rough waters.
• Boating Skills and Seamanship: Practical boating skills are a key component of safety courses. This includes boat handling, docking, anchoring, and basic seamanship techniques. Students learn about different types of boats, their operation, and how to maintain and troubleshoot common issues.
• Environmental Awareness: Safe boating also involves respecting the environment. Students are educated about the impact of boating on aquatic ecosystems and how to minimize disturbances. This includes topics like invasive species, pollution prevention, and responsible waste disposal practices.
• Boating Etiquette: Knowing the unwritten rules of the water helps create a pleasant and safe experience for all boaters. Students learn about proper etiquette, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vessels, minimizing wake in no-wake zones, and being considerate of swimmers and fishermen.
• Personal Watercraft Operation: With the popularity of personal watercraft like jet skis and wave runners, safety courses often include instruction on their safe operation. This covers topics such as personal flotation devices, riding at a safe speed, and how to ride responsibly near swimmers and other boaters.

By participating in boating safety courses, individuals can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to enjoy Delaware's waterways responsibly. These courses empower boaters to make informed decisions, minimize risks, and effectively handle various situations they may encounter on the water. It is important to stay updated with the latest safety guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience for everyone.

Boat registration agents

If you're looking for places to put your boat in on the Delaware, there are several options to choose from. Delaware's ocean and bay waters, rivers, lakes, and ponds offer plenty of opportunities for boating. Here are some specific locations to consider:

• Ridley Marina
• Burlington City ramp
• Penn's Landing
• Dredge Harbor in Delran, NJ
• Curtins Wharf in Burlington, NJ
• The sandbar in Bordentown

Now, when it comes to boat registration agents in Delaware, there are several authorised locations where you can register your boat or purchase a Tidal Access Boat Ramp Certificate. Here is a list of boat registration agents in Delaware:

• DNREC Boat Registration Office: 89 Kings Hwy SW Dover, DE 19901. Phone: 302-739-9916.
• Carlisle’s Marine: 49 Artisan Drive Smyrna, DE 19977. Phone: 302-389-0100.
• Cedar Creek Marina: 100 Marina Lane Milford, DE 19963. Phone: 302-422-2040.
• Taylor Marine: 22699 Argos Corner Rd Milford, DE 19963. Phone: 302-422-9177.
• Pontoon Express: 22572 Harbeson Rd Harbeson, DE 19951. Phone: 302-945-0654.
• Cedar Creek Marine Center: 20676 Sussex Hwy Seaford, DE 19973. Phone: 302-629-3581.
• Shorts Marine: 32415 Long Neck Rd Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: 302-945-1200.
• WMF Powersports: 32676 Oak Orchard Rd Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: 302-945-9150.
• Lingo Marine: Mail: PO Box 159 121 Delaware Ave Millsboro, DE 19966. Phone: 302-934-9877.
• Rudy Marine: 32606 DuPont Blvd Dagsboro, DE 19939. Phone: 302-945-2254.
• Bayside Jet Drive: 30387 Cedar Neck Rd Oceanview, DE 19970. Phone: 302-402-6266 (Closed Mondays).
• Midlantic Marine Center: 36624 Dupont Hwy Selbyville, DE 19975. Phone: 302-436-9763 (Closed Mondays).
• North Bay Marina: 36543 Lighthouse Rd Selbyville, DE 19975. Phone: 302-436-4211 (Closed Mondays).
• RT 113 Boat Sales: 52 Cemetery Rd Selbyville, DE 19975. Phone: 302-436-1737.
• Island Watersports: 39084 Harpoon Rd Fenwick Island, DE 19944. Phone: 302-537-2628.

Remember, it is important to keep your boat registration up to date, and ensure that you have the necessary registration card and safety equipment on board when operating your vessel.

Delaware boating laws

Boating on the Delaware River is a popular activity, with many access points and opportunities for recreation. If you're planning to take your boat out on the Delaware River, it's important to be aware of the local boating laws and regulations. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Registration and Licensing:

Delaware law requires the registration of all motorboats, including those powered by electric motors, if Delaware is the state of principal use. This means that if your boat is used, docked, or stored on Delaware waters for more than 60 consecutive days, it must be registered in Delaware. You can register your boat by filling out an application, registering in person, or renewing your existing registration online. The registration card must be kept on board the vessel when it is in use, and it is the operator's responsibility to ensure the vessel is properly registered.

Boating Safety Courses:

In Delaware, individuals born on or after January 1, 1978, are required by law to complete an approved boating safety course before operating a motorized boat, including personal watercraft. This law aims to promote safe and responsible boating by educating individuals about state laws, safety violations, and how to enjoy the waterways responsibly. The Delaware Boating Safety Course covers topics such as navigational rules, water depth awareness, speed limits, and boating under the influence.

Life Jacket and Personal Flotation Device Requirements:

The U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFDs) are mandatory for all passengers on board a vessel. Children aged 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket at all times while the vessel is underway. Additionally, anyone being towed behind a vessel is considered a passenger and must also wear a PFD. Vessels 16 feet in length or greater must carry at least one Type IV PFD, such as a ring buoy or seat cushion.

Alcohol and Boating Under the Influence (BUI):

Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited in Delaware. Boating under the influence carries heavy penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 and potential imprisonment for the first offense. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit for operating a vessel is 0.08% or more within four hours after operating the vessel. Boaters are advised to avoid alcohol consumption while boating due to the increased risks associated with sun exposure, water glare, and boat motion.

Speed and Wake Zone Regulations:

Vessels must maintain a slow speed to prevent creating a wake when within 100 feet of "Slow-No-Wake" speed areas, docks, launching ramps, marked swimming areas, swimmers, and anchored or moored vessels. This regulation helps ensure the safety of swimmers and other boaters and prevents damage to property.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Laws:

Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, have additional laws and regulations that operators must follow. PWC operators must be at least 14 years old and have completed an approved boating safety course. All PWC occupants must wear a PFD while the vessel is underway. PWCs must maintain a distance of 100 feet from other vessels that are towing people, and they have specific speed and proximity restrictions when operating near wharfs, piers, non-motorized vessels, and people in the water.

These are just some key aspects of Delaware's boating laws and regulations. It is important to stay informed and comply with all applicable laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others while enjoying the Delaware River.

Frequently asked questions