The Setting:
The 30th Anniversary of the ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge (BAB) aligns with an extraordinary historic moment in Hampton Roads June 20-21, 2026. This milestone year also marks the 50th Anniversary of Norfolk Harborfest and the Sail250 and SailVA Portsmouth–High Street Festival celebrations commemorating America’s 250th birthday. Approximately 75 Tall Ships will fill the Norfolk and Portsmouth waterfronts, creating one of the largest maritime gatherings in the region’s history. With the waterfront fully activated for this unprecedented 30/50/250 celebration, ASNE has secured a new venue for this year’s Build-A-Boat Challenge. The 2026 event will take place in Old Towne Portsmouth at North Landing, a prime waterfront location adjacent to the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel, placing BAB at the heart of the excitement while giving it a distinctive home within this once-in-a-generation anniversary year.
Sponsorships and Donations:
There is no entry fee for the teams, but corporate sponsorships and personal donations help cover the cost for this event, and support the ASNE mission. Donations are tax deductible. To complete the form and make payments online, please register at the bottom of this page, or print the linked Sponsorship and Donation Form and mail the donation as instructed.
The Challenge:
We invite you to compete in the ASNE-Sika Ultimate Build-A-Boat Challenge 2026! This competition combines creativity, craftsmanship and boat handling skills in a unique event that is challenging, entertaining and loads of fun. Here’s the low-down on the event:
Community Impact:
The American Society of Naval Engineers will commit 100% of net proceeds to funding the mission areas of ASNE, including Engineering scholarships, Middle School and High School STEM programs and professional development.
For ASNE this is not JUST fun, but also a community outreach and education program. We promote awareness of naval engineering, shipbuilding and ship repair professions that are the life blood of the Tidewater region. Builders and volunteers are encouraged to stop and interact with the crowd at every opportunity.
To Participate as a Boat Builder, use this Form to Register your Team:
2026 Build-A-Boat Team Entry_Sponsorship_Donation Forms
Check out this 2022 Build-A-Boat Presentation and Race Day Video, and this 2025 photo gallery.
For more information, contact Mike D'Amato at:
michaelj.damato@verizon.net
