It's the Law: Delaware Boating Regulations

BR-6. Vessel Speed

Section 1. Safe Boat Speed.

(a) Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

(b) The speed of all vessels on the waters of this State shall be limited to a Slow-No-Wake speed when within 100 feet of:

1. Any shoreline where “Slow-No-Wake” signs have been erected by the Department;
2. Floats;
3. Docks;
4. Launching ramps;
5. Marked swimming areas;
6. Swimmers; or
7. Anchored, moored, or drifting vessels.

(c) No person shall operate a vessel at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable having regard to conditions and circumstances such as the closeness of the shore and shore installations, anchored or moored vessels in the vicinity, width of the channel, and if applicable, vessel traffic and water use.

Section 2. Responsibility of Operator.

The operator of any vessel on the waters of this State shall be legally responsible for injuries, damages to life, limb, or property caused by his/her vessel or vessel wake.