Creativity, Competition and a Few Soggy Endings Highlight Cardboard Boat Regatta at Discovery Park

Cardboard, duct tape and plenty of imagination took center stage at Discovery Park of America on Saturday, May 9, as participants of all ages launched handcrafted vessels into the water for the annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. 

Families, friends and competitors gathered for a day filled with creativity, laughter and a little suspense as boats made entirely from cardboard raced across the water — with some staying afloat longer than others. 

The event featured youth and adult divisions, along with special awards recognizing creativity, ingenuity and memorable moments on the water. 

Youth Division Awards

First Place: 
Sea Ya – Boone Hart and Gage Hart 

Second Place: 
Modern Art II – Andrew Hackett, Oliver Wright, Felix Wright and Jeb Wright

Third Place: 
Koi-nd of Fast- Samantha Auxier, Kaylin Tucker and Lena Zimmerman

Adult Division Awards

First Place: 
Excel Boats  – Chris Posey and Emma Adams 

Second Place: 
Whaley 2 – Lynn Cox and Reed Logan from the Union City Fire Department

Special Awards

The Cardboard Boat Regatta has become a favorite tradition at Discovery Park, giving participants the chance to combine engineering, teamwork and creativity in a fun, hands-on competition. 

From surprisingly seaworthy designs to dramatic sinkings that had the crowd cheering, the event delivered plenty of memorable moments for guests and competitors alike. 

Events like the Cardboard Boat Regatta reflect Discovery Park’s mission to inspire children and adults to see beyond by encouraging imagination, problem-solving and hands-on learning in an unforgettable setting. 

View the full gallery on Flickr.