13th Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta

The Bayfront Maritime Center Cardboard Boat Regatta is an annual, family-friendly event held in Erie, Pennsylvania, celebrating creativity, community spirit, and maritime fun. Participants of all ages design and build boats using only cardboard, tape, glue, and paint, then race them across the East Canal Basin next to the Bayfront Maritime.

Event Overview

• Date: September 13, 2025

• Location: Bayfront Maritime Center, 40 Holland Street, Erie, PA

• Divisions:

  • Kids Crew (12 and under)

  • Teen Crew (13–18)

  • Adult Crew (19+)

  • Mixed Ages Crew

• Entry Fee: $50 per boat, which includes two event.

Event Schedule

• 9:00 AM: Registration opens.

• 10:00 AM: Boat parade line up

• 10:30 AM: Boat parade—participants showcase their creations to the crowd.

• 11:00 AM: Races begin, with boats competing head-to-head in their respective divisions.

• 12:30 PM: Awards Presentation

Awards and Recognition

Participants vie for various awards, including:

• Fastest Time: Awarded in each division.

• Most Creative Boat: Recognizing innovative and artistic designs.

• Most Dramatic Sinking: Celebrating the most spectacular (and safe) boat failures.

• Crowd Favorite: Determined by audience donations placed in designated boat buckets.

Community Engagement

The Regatta is one of the Bayfront Maritime Center's primary fundraisers, supporting its mission to provide hands-on maritime education and experiences to Erie's youth and community members. The event features food vendors, raffle prizes, merchandise sales, and tours of the Bayfront Maritime Center facilities, including the Schooner Porcupine.