Get Ready for
The 18th Annual Cardboard Boat Races:
Great Explorations!
18th Annual Cardboard Boat Races: Great Explorations
Saturday, August 10, 2024
On-site boat building begins at 9am, first race kicks off at 2pm!
Funded in part through the generous support of the New York State Canal Corporation and Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
This event is sponsored by Stewart’s Shops, the Saratoga County Chamber, and the Schuylerville Community Council.
Get Ready for Great Explorations!
Get ready for a splashing good time at the 18th Annual Cardboard Boat Races: Great Explorations, celebrating all who have - and will! - explore the Mighty Hudson River and New York State Canal System! Join us at Fort Hardy Park Beach in Schuylerville for a day filled with excitement and laughter as sailors of all ages compete in the ultimate cardboard boat challenge.
Witness the incredible ingenuity as participants construct boats entirely out of cardboard and race them across the Mighty Hudson. It's a test of creativity, engineering skills, and sheer determination!
Whether you're a participant or a spectator, this event promises fun for everyone. Cheer on your favorite boats as they navigate their cardboard vessels across the river, hoping to reach the finish line without sinking.
Bring your family and friends along for a day of adventure and discovery. Explore the park, enjoy delicious food from local vendors, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen and a towel, as you just might get wet if you decide to challenge friends, family, co-workers - you name it! - to compete for one the coveted awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards for speed, the Titanic Award, Most Enthusiastic Crew, Judges Bribe Award (“Bribes” are considered donations to Hudson Crossing Park), People’s Choice, Overall Best in Show, and Most Sailors Left Afloat!
Where to Begin?
Believe it or not, there are lots of online resources for building a cardboard boat that will stay afloat!
We highly suggest you spend some time googling ideas to see what others have tried…and sometimes failed…to keep above water. Then you can:
1. Decide what class you’d like to enter. It can be one or more - you decide!
2. Gather your supplies - or, if you’re going to build the day of the races, show up early and snag the best cardboard! Appliance and “big box” stores (pun intended) are often more than willing to give you their scrap corrugated cardboard. We also suggest that you have plenty of duck/packing tape to seal your boat with. Check the Official Rules and Regulations packet (click the button below) or scroll down for what materials are acceptable in the Cardboard Boat Classes.
3. Unleash your inner designer! Draw up the best boat you can imagine and start building!
Basic Rules for Racing
Be SAFE and have FUN!
Participants must be 7 years old or up to set sail alone.
All sailors MUST wear Coast-Guard approved personal floatation devices. PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR OWN!
Registration release forms must be signed by participant, parent, or legal guardian over the age of 18.
No sharp objects on board vessels.
Any boat deemed unsafe to others (or to the river) will be disqualified.
Paint, if used, must be dry before launching. Water based paint only - no oil based.
Boats may be pre-built or built on-site. All boats will compete within the appropriate class.
The “cabin” of the boat (where the crew sits) may not be enclosed above shoulder height.
Boats, boat parts, and debris must be completely removed from the river and park.
Crews must take recyclable boats with them. Cardboard boats may be left on-site for removal by Hudson Crossing Park volunteers. Please place in appropriate designated area.
Boat Classes
Pre-built
Kids Paddle (7-12 year old sailors only)
Built On-site on Race Day
Boat with the Most Sailors (min. of 3 to compete in this class
Registration Levels
Individual & Family: $35 per sailor ($100 Maximum Per Boat, plus additional insurance fees)
Small Business/Non-Profit: $100/Boat plus additional insurance fees
Corporate: $175/Boat plus insurance fees
Acceptable Materials for Boats Entered in the Cardboard Classes:
Register today on EventBrite to be entered in a chance to win a prize drawing on the day of the races!
(Please note that an additional $10/sailor fee will be due the day of for insurance.)
Save Time the Day of the Races!
Download and fill out your paperwork to bring with you!
This event is made possible in part by the NYS Canal Corporation, Erie Canalway Heritage Corridor, Stewart’s Shops, and Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
