
Teams design and build boats from scratch – then race them. For 30 years this event has celebrated naval engineering, shipbuilding, and the region’s maritime heritage.
Free & open to the public
About the Event
The ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge brings together teams of naval engineers, shipbuilding professionals, students, and maritime enthusiasts to design and construct boats from raw materials – then put them to the test on the water.
This year’s event marks the 30th anniversary of the challenge, timed to coincide with the Sail250® Virginia celebrations commemorating America’s 250th birthday. The 2026 event moves to a new home at North Landing in Olde Towne Portsmouth – just a short ferry ride from Norfolk and steps from the Renaissance Hotel, right in the heart of the waterfront action.
Sponsor contributions cover the cost of construction materials, keeping the event free for all competing teams. One hundred percent of net proceeds fund ASNE engineering scholarships and STEM grants for the next generation of naval engineers and shipbuilding professionals.
Event Details
Contact
For event information, team registration, or sponsorship inquiries, contact Mike D’Amato at 757.641.2877 or michaelj.damato@verizon.net. Visit asne-tw.org for full details.
The Event
Registration is open and spots are limited to 20 teams. Visit the official event website for team entry forms, sponsor applications, photos, and race videos from previous years.
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