Set Out to Sea in a Cardboard Box

Set Out to Sea in a Cardboard Box

What would you do with 24 single wall cardboard boxes, one double walled box, 12 cardboard edge protectors and three rolls of tape?

Building a seaworthy boat might not be the first thing that springs to mind, but that was the ‘starter kit’ that Isle of Wight based packaging company Betapak offered to teams entering this year’s cardboard box boat race at Cowes.

Cowes is one of the world’s most prestigious yachting events and it all kicks off this weekend. Highly experienced teams will be competing in top quality vessels for glory in the English Channel, but in addition to showcasing talented yachtsmen, the event is keen to attract the next generation to the sport.

Cowes Cardboard Boat Race

The Sunday of Cowes Week has always been dedicated to family fun, with a full range of activities to encourage young people to safely explore the waters of the British Coast. In 2014, the Cowes Cardboard Boat Race was introduced to the Sunday programme of events by former Paralympian sailor Tony Downs.

Professional and amateur teams can compete side by side in homemade cardboard vessels. In the first year 13 boats took to the water and many more will be taking part this weekend. The challenge is to stay afloat and complete the course. Whilst cardboard is renowned for its durability, it isn’t water resistant, so good design and speed are key to success!

UK Sailing Association

Whilst setting out to sea in a cardboard box provides fun entertainment, the race also raises money for the UK Sailing Association (UKSA) which provides an extensive range of water based training and development opportunities for around 9000 young people every year. Many of these youngsters are from disadvantaged backgrounds, but some learn the skills to become skilled sailors, watersport instructors or lifeguards.

We wish every success to the Cowes Cardboard Boat Race competitors, but remember that a sinking ship provides fun entertainment for the spectators!