Cardboard‑boat derby brings friendly competition, community spirit and support for a local cause
By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer
OAK ISLAND, NC — Big announcement out of Oak Island, the Dutchman Creek Park will once again host one of the region’s most creative summer traditions as the Dutchman Dinghy Dash returns for its fifth year on Saturday, August 1. The annual event transforms the park’s kayak launch into a 400‑foot racecourse where homemade cardboard boats attempt to stay afloat long enough to reach the finish line.
The Dinghy Dash has grown steadily each year, drawing families, youth groups, seasoned boat builders and first‑time participants. Organizers describe the derby as a mix of healthy competition, engineering creativity and the occasional splash, all centered around a good cause.
The only entry fee is a donation of at least $10.00 in non‑perishable goods, which will support local families in need.
The event begins at 10:00 a.m. at Dutchman Creek Park, located on the mainland at 4750 Fish Factory Road. Parking is free, and spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on the crews as they test their cardboard craftsmanship on the water.
Participants must bring and wear their own life jackets, and helmets are required for youth ages 12 and under. The youth division features a two‑person crew of racers age 12 and younger, while the adult division pairs one adult with one youth. Each team’s objective is to build a “Dutchman Creek‑worthy” vessel using cardboard, duct tape and glue, strong enough to carry two passengers from the starting line to the finish without sinking.
The schedule includes registration, safety briefings, youth and adult races, and an afternoon awards ceremony. All times are approximate and may vary depending on the number of participants.
Boat Registration: 10:00–10:30 a.m. Boat Introductions: 10:30–10:45 a.m. Boater Safety Briefing: 10:45–11:00 a.m. Youth Race: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Adult Race: 12:00–1:00 p.m. Award Ceremony: 1:15–2:15 p.m. Conclusion: 2:15–3:00 p.m.
Event organizers encourage participants to review the full rules, participant information and waiver ahead of time. The waiver may be printed and brought to the event. Registraton Packet
Coastal Carolina News is the updated branding for bcdollarsaver.com.
© 2026 CoastalCarolinaNews.com. All rights reserved
Be the first to comment