RDC Boating Regulations & Safety on the Water
b. It is against NH state law to water ski or operate a motorboat at a speed greater than 6 mph (headway speed) within 150 feet of the shoreline, docks, swimmers, and other boats. Due to the intensive activity along our shores in the summer, RDC strongly recommends that guests observe a 300 feet (100 yard) limit for headway speed.

c. RDC employees and guests should NOT participate in any form of high speed boating in Bennett Cove or in the vicinity of the Deephaven shoreline.

d. The State of New Hampshire does not set an age limit for the operation of motorboats 25 horsepower or under. RDC, however, does not permit guest children under 12 years old to operate a motorboat unaccompanied by someone at least 18 years old. It is the responsibility of all adult RDC guests to ensure that their children of all ages know and understand these regulations.

e. Do not exceed the maximum capacity of the boat.

f. If the weather seems threatening please limit your boating activities and stay near the shoreline.

g. All boats, canoes and kayaks must carry Coast Guard approved life preservers (one per person) of a size appropriate for the intended user.

h. All powerboats must have a fire extinguisher and horn or whistle on board.

i. All boats and canoes must operate "boating lights" if in use after dark. It is extremely dangerous and illegal to operate a boat after dark without boating lights. For your safety and the safety of others please use proper boating lights. Boat lights can be purchased at Zodiak.

j. All "non-camp" boats must be registered at the office at check in.

k. All power and sailboats must be registered with decals and numbers on the bow.

l. To help stop the spread of obnoxious exotic aquatic weeds, anyone who brings their own boat to RDC must remove all aquatic weeds from their boat and trailer before launching into the lake; and before transporting to another water body.

Please operate your boats with care. CARELESS BOATING CAN BE DANGEROUS: There have been serious injuries resulting from careless boat operation on Squam. Please follow the rules. Boating can be:

DAMAGING: The drinking water quality of the Lake is threatened. The wave action of high speed boating causes shoreline erosion, disturbs people in sailboats, canoes and rowboats, and causes damage to boats attached to the docks.

DESTRUCTIVE: Wildlife habitat is threatened. The protection of loons has been an ongoing concern for the Lakes Region. High speed boating and persistent annoyance towards these birds are very dangerous to their survival.

Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous and illegal. Please review the state rules for alcohol and boat operation. Remember to be a safe boater on Squam. Be aware of other boaters. Respect the surrounding environment, lake and wildlife. Do not pollute, disturb nests or use excessive speed on the lake. We greatly appreciate your cooperation.

ALL RDC GUESTS OPERATING A MOTORBOAT OR RENTING AN RDC WATERCRAFT OF ANY KIND MUST SIGN THE RDC BOATING AGREEMENT FORM AVAILABLE IN EITHER OFFICE OR FROM THE HARBORMASTER.

BOATING is a central part of the RDC experience. To ensure everyone’s safety there are many State and Camp rules that we all must follow. Below are RDC's Boating Rules and Regulations along with prominent state laws. We urge motorboat operators to review the complete N.H. State boating laws found in the booklet entitled "Boater's Guide" located in your guest manual or at either camp office.

a. RDC PROHIBITS THE DOCKING AND USE OF BOATS WITH MOTORS ABOVE 25 HORSE POWER.

RDC GUESTS ARE PROHIBITED FROM DOCKING OR MOORING BOATS WITH MOTORS ABOVE 25 HORSE POWER ELSEWHERE ON THE LAKE.

VISITORS FROM OTHER PARTS OF THE LAKE OPERATING BOATS WITH MOTORS ABOVE 25 HORSE POWER MAY NOT DOCK OR PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF PASSENGERS WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE MANAGEMENT.