Cardboard Boat Races

Participants in boats paddle across a calm waterway, surrounded by a large crowd on shore.

Set sail at the Sugarloaf Marina's 2nd Annual Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Teams of two will race to victory across the lagoon in custom-made vessels crafted entirely from cardboard. Prizes will be awarded for fastest race time, most team spirit, and more!

Event check-in begins at 9 A.M.

Race begins at 10 A.M.

Important info:

Boats must be built ahead of time using only cardboard.
Duct tape, cling wrap, etc. can be used to adhere pieces of cardboard together.
Only two team members per boat.
Personal flotation devices are mandatory (provided).
Two paddles per team will be provided.
Motorized items, waterproof sealants, and flotation devices are prohibited.

Rules

Boats will be built ahead of time and brought to the event ready to race.
Boats must be made entirely out of cardboard.
Items such as duct tape, cling wrap, etc. can be used to adhere pieces of cardboard together.
Corrugated cardboard, carpet tubes, cardboard blocks can be found at recycling centers, appliance stores, department stores, discount clubs, electronic stores, etc.
Pretreated cardboard such as waxed cardboard is allowed.
No paint is allowed on the day of the event. Any paint must be cured prior to the boat launch. Paints are intended for decorative purposes, not for waterproofing.
Prohibited items include motors/motorized items, waterproofing sealants, flotation devices, plastic tubing, etc.
The crew compartment cannot be enclosed (riders must be able to escape if necessary).
Decorations are encouraged, but should not be used as structural or flotation elements.