⛵ Delaware — Sailing Resources
Delaware sailing is centered on the inland bays (Indian River Bay and Rehoboth Bay) with access to the Atlantic via Indian River Inlet and Delaware Bay. The scene is smaller and more relaxed than neighboring states, ideal for trailer-sailors and coastal day sailing or short cruises. Main activity is around Lewes, Rehoboth, and Dewey Beach.
Boater Education
- Delaware DNREC Boating Safety — Persons born on or after January 1, 1978 must complete an approved boating safety course to operate motorized vessels (including sailboats with auxiliary power). PWC operators must be at least 14 and carry proof of course completion.
Approved courses are available online and in-person. Carry the Delaware Boating Safety Education Certificate onboard. DNREC-approved providers listed on their site.
Marinas & Harbors
Most sailing is in the protected inland bays with quick access to the ocean through the Indian River Inlet. Transient slips are available at several facilities, though the overall number is smaller than in Maryland or New Jersey.
- Indian River Marina (Rehoboth Beach) — Largest public facility in the area with 294 wet slips, transient daily/weekly/monthly options, indoor/outdoor dry storage, fuel, ramp, and café. Excellent access to the inlet and Atlantic.
- Rehoboth Bay Marina (Dewey Beach) — Wet slips, jet ski slips, transient options, maintenance services, and houseboat rentals. Convenient to both bays.
- Lewes area — Canalfront Park Marina and City Dock (small number of transient slips along the Lewes & Rehoboth Canal) and Lewes Harbour Marina. Good for Delaware Bay access.
Indian River Inlet provides the main ocean access. Watch for strong currents and shoaling. Transient space is more limited than in larger harbors — call ahead, especially in summer.
Marine Surveyors
- Nolen’s Marine Surveying (Seaford) — Capt. Joyce Nolen, SAMS® and ABYC. Serves Sussex County and the broader Delaware area.
- Additional options often come from neighboring Maryland or New Jersey surveyors who regularly work in Delaware waters.
Delaware has a limited number of resident accredited surveyors. Use the official SAMS and NAMS directories and filter for Delaware or the Delmarva Peninsula.
Brokerages
The Delaware sailboat market is relatively small. Most listings appear on national platforms.
- Search current sailboat listings on YachtWorld and BoatTrader.
- Local dealers in Lewes/Rehoboth and nearby Maryland handle some brokerage.
Many Delaware sailors look to Annapolis or other Chesapeake brokers for larger selections.
Sailing Clubs & Resources
- Organized sailing is modest. Some yacht clubs in the Lewes/Rehoboth area welcome sailors and host events.
- DNREC Boating Resources — Official state information on regulations, safety, and access.
- Delaware Sailing Clubs — US Sailing — Directory of clubs.
The inland bays are popular for small-boat sailing, kayaking, and fishing. Many owners trailer boats from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland.