For over two decades, the Nanaimo Silly Boat Regata has been one of the most fun-filled and highly anticipated events of the year. This year was no different. Teams from all over the Nanaimo area gathered together, built the silliest boats they could think of and ran hilarious races for a wonderful cause. The 26th Annual Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta raised over $80,000 for the Childhood Development Centre. Way to go Nanaimo!
Not wanting to miss out on the fun, we headed down to Swy-a-lana Lagoon and joined the thousands of other locals and visitors who watched the race. We brought a camera along.
Teams preparing for the race
The first heat is about to begin!
Eager fans, waiting for the races to begin
*Bang* And they're off!
Traffic Jam!
The Mid-Island Co-Op Boat, winner of Super Silliest Boat!
Some were more functional than others!
A lot of people came out to watch the races!
The famous Nanaimo Pickle Boats!
At the finish line!
First to ring the bell wins!
Even if you weren't enjoying the races, there was sunshine, food and activities galore
The results:
- First Overall The VIEX Kountry Kritters
- Super Silliest Boat The Mid-Island Co-Op
- Super Silliest Sailors The Buccaneer Inn
- Super Silliest Costumes Nanaimo Realty/Royal LePage
- Best Team Spirit The Royal Bank
- First to Sink Carmichael Enterprises (What a dubious, but fun, honour!)
In all, it was another extremely successful year for the Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta. We already can’t wait for next year!
Do you have any photos of the 26th Annual Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta? If you do, email them to aidan@tourismnanaimo.com and we’ll post them here!