How to Build a Fast Raingutter Regatta Boat

The Cub Scout Raingutter Regatta allows boys to build and race boats down a rain gutter filled with water in a spirit of camaraderie and competition. While having fun is the main goal, winning the race can make it more fun.



Making a few modifications to a kit will produce a fast boat. A fast boat should stay upright with the bow out of the water, move in a straight line and not drag along the sides or bottom of the rain gutter. Attention to details and careful crafting will allow your boat to look good and finish ahead of the pack.

Instructions

1

Draw a light guideline along the center of the bottom of the balsa-wood boat from the bow to the stern.

2

Sand the sides and edges of the bottom of the boat, rounding them off to remove any corners. Both sides should be evenly sanded to keep the boat balanced and fast. Lightly sand the bottom of the boat to make it smooth and flat. Sand the bottom of the bow to create a curved look when viewed from the side.

3

Place the mast in the top of the boat and lightly bend it toward the back of the boat without breaking it. Remove the mast and set it aside.

4

Paint or stain the boat with two coats of an oil-based paint or stain then sand it smooth.

5

Paint or spray the boat with a clear acrylic paint to seal the boat and provide a glossy finish.

6

Score the wood for the keel and rudder with a pencil on the center line. Glue the keel on the bottom no more than 3/4 inch ahead of the rudder with the narrrow edge in the hull and the angled edge forward to give the boat more stability. Ensure both the keel and rudder are straight and perpendicular to the bottom of the boat.

7

Glue the mast in place so the bottom of the mast is flush with the bottom of the boat.

8

Cut a new hole in the bottom of the sail 1/2 inch above the old one. Trim 1/4 inch from the top of the sail and 3/4 inch off the bottom of the sail to reduce drag (this will cut off the old hole). Clip the corners off the bottom of the sail to keep them from hitting the side of the rain gutter.

9

Glue the sail in place with a dab of glue on the mast at each hole to keep the sail facing straight forward. The sail should sit 1 1/2 inches above the deck to keep it from hitting the top or side of the gutter.