Castaway
Build cardboard boats from scratch and race them in the waters of Lake Ontario. This unforgettable beach challenge combines engineering, creativity, and hilarious moments as teams test their seaworthiness in the ultimate summer team building activity.
How the Challenge Works
From concept to race in one unforgettable afternoon
Design Phase
Teams receive cardboard, tape, and basic tools. Collaborate to design a seaworthy vessel that can carry your crew across the water.
Construction Time
90 minutes of hands-on building. Test your engineering skills and creativity as you bring your boat design to life.
Launch & Testing
Take your boat to the water for initial testing. Make last-minute adjustments before the big race.
The Great Race
Race across the designated course. Will your boat stay afloat? Speed, creativity, and teamwork determine the champions.
Award Categories
Multiple ways to win means every team has a chance to shine
Speed Champion
Fastest boat across the finish line
Best Design
Most creative and aesthetically impressive
Seaworthy Award
Boat that stays afloat the longest
Team Spirit
Best team coordination and energy
Beach Venues
Toronto's best waterfront locations for boat building
Woodbine Beach
Toronto's largest beach with shallow water perfect for boat racing. Ample space for construction and spectating.
Cherry Beach
Scenic waterfront location with calmer waters. Great for smaller groups seeking a more intimate setting.
Sunnyside Beach
Classic Toronto beach with boardwalk access. Convenient facilities and beautiful sunset backdrop.
What's Included
Everything needed for a safe, fun waterfront adventure
What Teams Are Saying
"Hands down the most fun we've had at a team event. Watching our boat actually float was amazing, and watching other boats sink was hilarious. Perfect summer activity."
"This was so different from typical team building. Getting outside, being creative, and laughing together when boats fell apart created memories our team still talks about."
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if someone falls in the water?
Safety first! All participants wear life jackets, we have certified safety personnel on-site, and the race area is in shallow water. Capsizing is part of the fun and entirely expected.
What if the weather is bad?
We monitor weather closely and can reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Light rain is fine, but we won't proceed in storms or high winds. We include one free reschedule in our pricing.
Do we need to know how to build boats?
Absolutely not! The challenge is figuring it out as a team. Our facilitators provide basic guidelines and safety requirements, but the creativity is all yours.
What should participants wear?
Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet and sandy. We recommend swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, and water shoes. Sunscreen is essential. We provide life jackets.
Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes! The water is shallow (waist-deep maximum), everyone wears life jackets, and safety personnel are always present. Team members can also contribute to building without racing.
What's the ideal group size per boat?
Teams of 6-8 people work best. Each boat typically holds 2-4 racers while the rest of the team cheers from shore.
Ready to Set Sail?
Create an unforgettable summer team building experience your team will talk about for years.
Love Castaway?
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