Not all those who cardboard boat race are lost.

Established in 1938, Salem Maritime National Historic Site was created to preserve Salem’s rich maritime history. Since 2023, this cherished history has included triumphant cardboard boats. Even the smallest boats can change the course of the future. In 2025, we continue to add our exploits to that monumental story with the return of The Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta! Lift up your merry hearts, and paddle to meet your fortune!

On August 9, 2025, join us as we celebrate the Salem Maritime Festival. Starting at 11:00am, the tide waits for no one so there is no stopping for elevenses, we will kick off a series of competitive heats testing the engineering, ingenuity, determination, and artistry of our valiant registered participants. Launching from Derby Beach, each cardboard boat must hold at least two people, a Captain and their crew, who will paddle their ship out and around a questionably far buoy there and back again to the beach. Cherished trophies will be awarded in a series of competitive categories. This will be one cardboard boat race to rule them all.

Participation is limited to a fellowship of 40 boats. All boats MUST register through this announcement to participate in the Regatta. Without official registration YOU SHALL NOT PASS!

• Registration is for each cardboard boat with at least two participants. There is no need to register for those looking to cheer on the Regatta from the shore.
• Registered Captains must have their boats checked in and on Derby Beach by 10:00am on race day. All boats will be on display for review and appreciation prior to the official start of heats at 11:00am.
• A pre- race safety meeting will take place at 10:30am and all participants must sign a waiver before the start of the Regatta.
• An awards ceremony will commence following the end of the Regatta around 1:00pm. Just think of the bragging rights and the wave of adulation as you hoist a precious trophy from the third annual Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta.

Participation spaces are limited to 40 boats.

Any questions should be directed to gavin_gardner@nps.gov