The Silly Boat Regatta is one of the most popular and funniest events in Nanaimo that brings out people's creative side. It has had over 8,000 participants and spectators and over 150 dedicated volunteers.
Participants must build silly-looking boats without a motor, in four hours or less. The boats have to sail the course from Swy-A-Lana Lagoon to the "BUOY" in Nanaimo Harbour and back to the starting point and try their best to win the competition.
This event is one of the largest community fundraisers for the Nanaimo Child Development Centre, with several local businesses' sponsorship at their side. The Silly Boat Regatta is about cooperation with family or friends; that's why it has been so successful every year. Another reason is the committed staff, volunteers and the community members who help make it happen. The Silly Boat Regatta's fundraisings go directly toward helping the Child Development Centre provide programs, services, and equipment to children with identified special needs.
The Silly Boat Regatta takes place at Maffeo Sutton Park, Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island. Maffeo Sutton Park itself is a lovely park with great views. It is mainly known for its excellent walking trails, playground and picnicking areas. The good thing about the location is that almost everything that downtown has to offer is within walking distance.
While you are near downtown, before or after the race, you have plenty of opportunities to explore the wonders of Nanaimo. Visit the city landmarks like the Bastion or Nanaimo Museum, also some local galleries and enjoy a drink or a meal in many pubs or restaurants.
From Nanaimo:
To reach the Silly Boat Regatta, drive toward Maffeo Sutton Park on Comox Rd, northwest of Nanaimo Harbour.
From Victoria:
The fastest route from Victoria to Maffeo Sutton Park is Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. It's 111 km (68.9 feet) and takes about an hour and a half.
Drive to the west on Pandora Ave toward Government St for 99 meters (324.8 feet). Turn right onto Government St and after 1 km (0.6 miles) take a slight right toward Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. After 72 meters (236.2 feet), use any lane to turn left onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and drive 110 km (68.3 miles). Turn right onto Comox Rd and go on for 91 meters (298.5 feet). Turn left onto Cliff St and after 110 meters (360.8 feet), turn right. It takes 42 meters (137.7 feet) more to reach Maffeo Sutton Park.
The Silly Boat Regatta started in 1984 when CHUB Radio began a fun-filled event to help a Vancouver-based charity. This charity that was providing financial aid to children was named the Show You Care Society. In 1998, the Nanaimo Child Development Centre was the only organizer of The Silly Boat Regatta. It has been continuing to raise needed funds for the Centre every year.
Maffeo Sutton Park is the location of the Silly Boat Regatta event. It is one of the historical Canadian parks suitable for water activities, bird watching, and beachcombing. Also, Nanaimo is where the best activities in the city are available. You can throw an axe at a target like a Viking warrior in Axe & Grind, about 650 m (2132.5 ft) to the south. Find entertainment at Port Theatre on Front St, where you can see a play or enjoy a concert. Since the docks are nearby, have a walk there in the evening and watch the sunset. With so many take-outs and dine-in restaurants in the area like Modern Café or The View Oceanside Grill, it would be a total loss if you don't try some of them.