MAKESHIFT sailors will be hoping their cardboard vessels can go the distance before they become pulp in this year’s Durban International Boat & Lifestyle Show from 17 to 19 July. Any boats that survive their soggy journey could win R1 000, with races taking place on Saturday and Sunday at the Durban marina. Northglen News recently caught up uMhlanga resident, Justin Blake, who has already made his makeshift seafaring vessel using just duct tape and cardboard.
Blake, who works for Pack Now, the packaging supply store company sponsoring the event, said he hopes to see people show up in their numbers at this year’s event.
“My boat took about four hours to make. It wasn’t that hard really and I tried to keep it simple. Shaping your cardboard in the traditional shape of a boat doesn’t really help when you out at sea. It all depends on how well you’ve wrapped your boat and stay afloat. You can even make cardboard paddles or use your hands. The event is aimed at everyone, the boats have to be made of purely cardboard, which can be glued or taped together, but without any substance that provides it with any buoyancy.
“We are handing out cardboard to anyone interested in participating from our Glen Anil offices,” the 26-year-old said.
Blake has even uploaded an instructional video on YouTube.
“Boating is my passion, I love being out at sea and fishing and when we were approached about the race, I was keen to get on board. This event is all about having fun and it’s for a good cause. All funds raised from the parking fees will go towards the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI),” he said.
According to the event organiser, Barry Meehan, there will also be halcat racing, wild rides on the SAS Raptor, the adrenalin-pumping semi-submersible Sea-Breacher, and for the less adventurous, free massages on the Spirit d’Sulis, a luxury catamaran.
“It’s the perfect outdoor event for families during the school holidays and the ultimate event for boating and outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts.
“This year we have a few amazing surprises along with spot prizes for visitors. All round, it’s going to be an exciting weekend in Durban,” Meehan said.
Tickets are R50 for adults and R30 for kids over 12 and senior citizens. Kids under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult.
Tickets will be available at both entrances of the show, which will be located at the Durban Marina and at the parking area opposite Café Fish. Gates open at 9.30am until 5pm on Friday, 17 and Saturday, 18, and from 9.30am to 4pm on Sunday, 19 July.
