2023 Recycled Cardboard Boat Regatta

After a three year break, the Recycled Cardboard Boat Regatta will be back in Blades on the first Saturday in August.
The regatta will once again be held at the Nanticoke River Public Marine Park in Blades, on Saturday, Aug. 5th. Sign in and Registration will begin at 11 a.m., with judging of boats’ appearances at noon, and races starting at 12:30 p.m. (Rain date is Sunday, Aug. 6th). This year we welcome the Delmarva Model Boat Club, who will be demonstrating their battery-powered remote-controlled boats in the marina before the races begin.

Cardboard boats of any size, shape, or design may be entered in the regatta, but they must be made of used cardboard, and they should be painted with multiple coats of latex house paint. Decorations may be removed after appearance judging, prior to the race start. Participants who pre-register their boats by Saturday, July 29, will receive special early-bird pricing of $20 per boat. After that date, registration will increase to $30. Participants can also register the day of the event.

The race course is about 100 yards for adults and 50 yards for children. First place trophies will be awarded for winners of races in five categories: Individuals, Families, Youth (12 and under), Teens (13 -18), and Organizations & Businesses.

In addition to timed races, trophies are given for “Pride of the Fleet,” “Most Whimsical” and “Team Spirit”. Also, spectators get to vote for “People’s Choice”, while a special “Titanic Award” will be given for the Most Spectacular Sinking! After all regular races are completed, crews are welcome to challenge other crews to race one-on-one for bragging rights (for a nominal $5 fee/crew).


Join our team as a sponsor for this event, with proceeds going toward event costs, projects that improve water quality, and water quality education. Sponsorships begin at $50.
For more information, rules for construction and to register,