Using a sailboat in NH, from MA

[Winnipesaukee]

If anyone has seen my other thread, I plan on getting a 16 or 18 foot non-motorized sailboat. In MA where I live, registration is not required for non-motorized sailboats. However, in NH, registration is required for anything 12' and over (or something like that). The law also states that out of state registrations may be used in NH waters for no more than 30 consecutive days.

Can I legally operate a non-registered sailboat in NH for less than 30 days, since registration is not required in MA?

Thanks.

[NightWing]

Legally? No. The chance of getting caught? Slim.;)

[Winnipesaukee]

Well, I plan to use FL #1 as a leeward mark during the weekend to simulate racing in the ocean (Kidding. Kind of :rolleye1: ). I'm bound to have an MP see me at some point.


I'll play it safe and get it registered.

[NightWing]

Under 21 ft doesn't require displaying the issued bow number, just the validation decal within 2 feet of the stem. Getting the decal will put your mind at ease.

[ApS]

"...I'll play it safe and get it registered..."
Why? You are entitled to sail registration-free. If you sail for several short seasons in New Hampshire, that registration fee can add up to getting replacement sails!

When I had a sailing vessel that did not require registration, I put the applicable RSA on the bow! (RSA 350: E4, was it?) The MPs would approach...and wave! For $3 in stick-on letters, I saved plenty over the years.

Another tip: Carry your PFDs openly and attach the required whistle to it prominently—like at the shoulder area. Aside from registration, your compliance with NH laws are displayed openly and will avoid a stop. Also, don't be the only boat in sight! :rolleye2:

"...I'm bound to have an MP see me at some point..."
Oh-yes-you-are—definitely! :(

You are required to carry registration (which on a sailboat often gets faded, soggy, torn, or even lost in the hulls of a catamaran); but your driver's license (also required) is from Massachusetts, which absolves you of any required registration anyway.

My visiting B-I-L is from California, and stores his big powered sailboat here. His CA registration fee is very cheap. (Only $5, IIRC).

Even Winnipesaukee-bound powerboats from New Jersey don't get numbers; but some some reason, unpowered sailboats seem to get stopped more readily. :confused:

Having a young lady on board a Hobie seems to make it even more likely! :laugh:

[jrc]

Well, it will cost you about $28.00 to register a 18 foot sail boat, and the fine is $55 if you get caught without it.

But since you are planning to use our state waterways, maybe you consider that your registration will contribute:

$17 to the navigation and safety fund
$5 to the lake restoration and preservation fund
$1 to the search and rescue fund
$5 to the public boat access fund

Maybe someone else should pay your share of these funds?

[Winnipesaukee]

Thats a big negative JRC. Once I get a boat I will get it registered up there. It's not like the money goes to anything in Massachusetts; it goes to my favorite state.