By Nancy Davis, The Observer | View Source

On Monday, Nov. 3, Lou King descended into the Indian River water with a boat constructed of cardboard, duct tape, and hope. Several spectators cheered her on as she paddled her way into the river. Success quickly gave way to the emerging waters. Although her cardboard creation gave way to nature, her spirit did not.

Marine Discovery Center presents the Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, Nov. 15, in conjunction with their Open House celebration. The event begins with a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new discovery trail at 10 a.m. Estuary explorations begin at 10:30 a.m. and include an oyster bash, mangrove mania, feeding frenzy, and discovery walk. These explorations continue through 1 p.m.

From 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees may choose to visit one of the eco exhibits. Kayak tours will be offered at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Eco Tours will be given at 11 a.m. and noon. A kayak camper demo begins at 12:30 p.m. followed by the kayak rodeo at 1 p.m. The cardboard boat race is scheduled for 1:45 p.m. and Marine Discovery Center ponders “will they sink or float?” The finale is a kayak poker run beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Those interested in building and racing a cardboard boat, must adhere to several rules. “No supplies other than cardboard and duct tape can be used in building the boat. (no glue, aluminum foil, paint, cardboard tubes, etc.) You can use no more than 500 ft. of duct tape per boat. No surfboard or raft designs allowed. Use paddles to move the boat through the water. Kayak paddles are available at MDC.” For complete building and race rules, please e-mail marilynmdc@cfl.rr.com or call (386) 428-4828.

According to the MDC cardboard boat science information, races involve “1.) How much you sink or don’t sink, 2.) staying balanced, not tipping over, and 3.) moving forward quickly in the water.” There is a distinct, mathematical method to constructing a cardboard boat that will float. Measure the weight of your cardboard boat including paddles. Measure the weight of your crew with lifejackets, the length, widths, and height of your boat. Remember that a cubic foot of water weighs 62.4 pounds.

Keep these rules and equations in mind when constructing your boat. When executed correctly, the cardboard boat should not only float, but be able to complete the race.

Marine Discovery Center is located at 162 N. Causeway, NSB.