2023 Wooden Boat Festival

"Let's face it: there's nothing quite like spending time around the water, especially in small boats. Unfortunately, many kids don't have opportunities to develop a passion for boating and the ocean. That's why at Angus Rowboats, we're working on an exciting new project to help ignite youthful passion for these pursuits.

We're creating 4-foot uncrewed downwind sailboats that can cross oceans. Through these boats, students embark on an exciting voyage that teaches them about geography, ocean currents, and cultural connections. They pack a compartment with gifts and souvenirs to be collected by school kids in a random distant location, creating a modern message in a bottle. The boats are tracked via satellite, allowing students to follow their progress across the ocean. Our project empowers young minds and prepares them for a future that is increasingly reliant on technology and global connections. Colin will discuss the motivation behind this project, the technology involved, and how we hope it will instill a sense of stewardship and passion for the oceans in kids who may not otherwise have access to the water."