MWR Richardson Pool Cardboard Boat Show 2026

Get ready to set sail in the most creative boat you can build! Join us for a day of fun, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories at the MWR Richardson Pool Cardboard Boat Show 2026.

🗓️ When & Where

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Can Participate

All DOD ID card holders and their dependents 4 and older are welcome to join the fun.

⏰ Deadline to Sign Up

Register by 4:00 PM on Wednesday September 30th, 2026.

🎯 Purpose

The mission, should you choose to accept it, is to design and build a cardboard boat capable of carrying a crew of 1 to 3 people. Your vessel will need to navigate a 50-meter obstacle course in the pool.

Important Notes:

• Boats must be constructed before the event.

• Teams are responsible for providing all construction materials.

• Oars, sails, and paddles must also be made of cardboard.

• For your safety, all participants will be required to wear the provided Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) at all times.

⛵ Boat Requirements

To ensure fair play and a safe environment, all boats will be inspected upon check-in. Please adhere to the following rules to avoid disqualification:

1. Materials:

   • The entire boat (hull, superstructure, and seating) must be made of corrugated cardboard, duct tape, and plastic bottles/containers ONLY.

   • The boat CANNOT be covered with tape, crayons, wax-based products (including wax-based cardboard), enamel paint, or any substance that will bleed or run off into the pool.

   • Bottom seams must be taped from the inside of the boat (seams ONLY).

2. Decorations: You can decorate your boat, provided the decorations do not aid in flotation.

3. Size: The maximum length of each boat is 10 feet from bow to stern.

4. Passenger Area: The passenger area of your boat cannot be enclosed to allow for a quick exit if the boat submerges.

5. Safety: Boats must be free of sharp edges, pointy objects, or anything that could be a menace to other teams.

6. Conduct: No bumping, jostling, or attacking other boats. Avoid other boats whenever possible.

🏆 Awards

Prizes will be awarded for the following categories:

• Best in Show: The most creatively designed boat. (Past winners include airplanes, dragon boats, and spaceships!)

• The Titanic Award: The team with the most dramatic sinking! (Sink with style, not dignity!)

• Best Team Uniforms: Captain, first mate, and supporting crew will be judged on the originality and authenticity of their themed costumes. (Past winners have included airline crews, pirates, and astronauts!)

• Fastest to Finish: The team that crosses the finish line in the fastest time.

Parents, this event is meant to be fun and memorable for everyone. Let's make it a great day on the water!