BELFAST — A handful of entrants tested their cardboard craftsmanship off the shore of Steamboat Landing, at the six annual Harbor Fest’s Cardboard Boat Challenge. Six vessels sat in the parking lot of Belfast’s Boathouse as visitors arrived in a steady stream to judge them.

“If you haven’t voted, or if you want to vote more, you can get [voting slips] at the booth, or there are [volunteers] wandering around,” the emcee announced, as visitors examined each boat in search of their favorite. 

The cardboard creations, named Creeper, Mum’s the Word, Shark bait, Yankees, Stella, and Gard Hard, all adhered to the event’s strict guidelines. 

Every boat was subject to the same rules, which include specifics about the type of cardboard and glue allowed, and where duct tape can be used. Other than the event’s rules, participants are limited only by their imagination.  

As diverse as the boats themselves were the methods of creation, with some teammates spending days on their boats, and others putting them together the day before the event. 

By the time the competitors formed a line on the rocky shore, a thick crowd had gathered to watch the spectacle.

Support staff, including lifeguards on shore and several kayaks in the water, were on hand in case any vessel encountered trouble.  

“The kayaks are there to help you out if you need it,” event staff said. “But please do not go to the kayaks or grab [them].”

The boats competed two at a time, with varying success. 

While Shark Bait made it successfully around the buoy and most of the way back to shore, it ended up with both occupants pulling it in from waist deep water after taking on water. 

Mum’s the Word, on the other hand, remained completely dry for the duration of its journey. Its lone occupant had to be towed in by a support kayak from the buoy however, after difficulty overcoming strong winds.

After each individual heat concluded, all the vessels returned to the water in one final race, where the Stella took its second win of the day. 

Every participant received a medal and each team received a miniature oar to commemorate the occasion. 

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com