how to make the best cardboard boat for the regatta

How to Make the Best Cardboard Boat for the Regatta

July 1, 2025
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Wednesdays Are for Cardboard Boat Races

At Papoose Pond, Wednesdays mean one thing: the legendary cardboard boat regatta. It’s one of our most beloved weekly traditions—where campers of all ages design, decorate, and race their own cardboard creations across the pond.

Whether you’re a seasoned racer or brand new to the event, this guide is here to help you build a boat that floats, performs, and brings the fun. Because sure, it’s not always about winning… but why not give yourself the best chance possible?

Let’s dive into the science (and silliness) of cardboard boat building.

Start With the Right Materials

You don’t need to be an engineer to build a seaworthy cardboard boat, but starting with quality materials helps especially when you are just learning how to make the best cardboard boat for the regatta at Papoose Pond Campground. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Large corrugated cardboard boxes (the thicker, the better)
  • Duct tape (lots of it!)
  • Box cutter or utility knife
  • Yardstick or ruler
  • Creativity—your most important tool!

Pro Tip: Double-walled cardboard (like this one) provides better structure and water resistance than single-wall varieties.

Design Smart (and Stay Dry)

Before cutting and taping, think about your strategy. The best cardboard boats balance floatability and durability.

Cardboard Strength Tips

  • Laminate layers of corrugated cardboard at right angles to create a plywood-like structure.
  • Score fold lines with a utility knife to ensure cleaner, stronger bends

These simple upgrades—found in many successful regatta builds—help your boat hold shape and handle water long enough to race.

Additional Technical Insight:

  • Flat-bottom hulls with a low center of gravity provide superior stability
  • Longer boats tend to be faster but harder to turn; aim for 8–12 ft length and 18–30 in width based on crew size
  • Internal ribs/stringers made from folded or layered cardboard add rigidity and structural support 

Build It to Last (at Least One Race)

Here’s how to put your boat together with both form and function in mind:

  1. Seal the bottom with overlapping duct tape strips—horizontal and vertical.
  2. Add internal support ribs by folding and taping extra cardboard beams inside the hull.
  3. Create a solid “cockpit” area where racers can kneel or sit comfortably without damaging the boat.
  4. Waterproof the seams using extra layers of tape!
  5. Test it (dry!) by having someone sit in it on the grass before race day.

Optional: Add cardboard paddles or fun decorative touches like flags or mascots, but remember, heavy = risky.

Make It a Team Effort

This is one of those moments where the journey is the destination. Make boat-building part of your family or group’s experience:

  • Split up tasks: one person cuts, one tapes, one designs
  • Come up with a team name or chant
  • Choose a boat “theme” and go all in (think pirates, dinosaurs, mermaids!)

Did you know? Every summer, some of the most creative (and outrageous) boats at Papoose Pond are just as celebrated as the winners. Judges and spectators alike love cheering on style and spirit!

Race Day Tips from Papoose Pros

When Wednesday rolls around, here’s how to make the most of your regatta moment:

  • Get in gently. Rushing entry = early sinkage.
  • Balance weight evenly. Avoid tipping from the start.
  • Keep paddles low in the water. High splashes slow you down.
  • Smile and wave! Whether you’re gliding to victory or floating in style, enjoy every second.

And don’t forget, every participant gets bragging rights, but top finishers might just score a prize. And, don’t forget to post a picture of your success (and failures) on social media and tag us @PapoosePondCamping and use the hashtag #PapoosePond2025 to be featured! 

Float for the Fun of It

At the end of the day, racing cardboard boats at Papoose Pond isn’t just about speed. It’s about creativity, teamwork, and the kind of summer memories that stay with you long after the cardboard has dissolved.

So build bold, race proud, and if your boat sinks—laugh louder than anyone else.

Ready to take on the regatta? We’ll see you at the beach next Wednesday. May your duct tape be strong, your paddles swift, and your cardboard dreams afloat.

Learn more about Papoose Pond and all of the fun family activities that we have in store for you all season at papoosepondcamping.com!