Building Boating's Future...Today!

The Plywood Regatta introduces students to boat building, teamwork, and the excitement of recreational boating through one of South Florida’s most hands-on marine education events.

Established in 1996 by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, the event challenges teams of middle school, high school, and marine technical school students to build seaworthy boats using simple hand tools and supplied materials, including plywood, 3M 5200 fast-cure caulk, and zip ties. Once the boats are built, students paint, decorate, and name their creations.

On the second day of the event, teams launch their boats and compete in a friendly race to test their designs on the water. The event brings together students, teachers, mentors, volunteers, and marine industry professionals for a weekend focused on creativity, problem-solving, and marine career exposure.

All Plywood Regatta proceeds benefit South Florida marine industry education programs and the Plywood Regatta Scholarship Fund, helping encourage marine education and build student interest in the marine industry.