Boats constructed from thin plywood and duct tape may not sound very seaworthy. Still, they’re the only vessels allowed in Schooner Wharf’s Memorial Weekend Minimal Regatta.
Qualifying crafts can only be constructed from a single sheet of 4’X8’ plywood, two 8’ long two-by-fours, a roll of duct tape, and a pound of fasteners. Other than epoxy paint, anything else is strictly forbidden.
It may sound impossible, but not so for our creative locals. With these minimal materials and maximum inventiveness, they typically “make a splash” in front of hundreds of revelers gathered to watch the spectacle.
The key to winning is to keep the crudely crafted “boats” afloat long enough to complete a short course in Key West’s Historic Seaport.
Racers vie for prizes in multiple categories, including fastest boats, most creative designs, best paint jobs, sportsmanship, and best-costumed entries. Past regattas have included boats fashioned as alligators, spaceships, guitars, wine bottles, and pirate ships.
Unfortunately, some teams’ clever designs far outweigh their seaworthiness. Don’t be surprised to see more than one hapless captain go down with the ship.
The action starts around 1 pm on Sunday, May 28. You can also enjoy a traditional Memorial Day Weekend BBQ with great live music throughout the day. It all happens at Schooner Wharf Bar, located at the foot of William St in the heart of Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info: 305-292-9520; schoonerwharf.com.