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Home » Science Experiments for Kids » Pirate Boat STEM Challenge?

Pirate Boat STEM Challenge?

Modified: Mar 16, 2025 · Published: Feb 21, 2015 by Emma Vanstone · This post may contain affiliate links · 8 Comments

Building and testing boats is a fun preschool science activity for learning about the properties of materials and the effect of gradient on speed. We split the experiment into two parts. First, we tested different materials to see which worked best as a boat and then raced the boats down different inclines.

This activity is also part of my Playful Science series, so don’t forget to check out the rest!

Which materials make the best boat challenge

Materials

Paper

Optional pirate decorations

Corks

Elastic bands

Skewers

Black cardboard

Wooden lolly sticks

Washing up sponges

Plasticine

Glue

Anything else you want to try

How to make mini pirate boats

Construct small boats using different materials.

We made a lolly stick raft, a simple boat with a washing-up sponge and a paper boat.

Pirate themed boats made from washing up sponges and lolly sticks for a preschool pirate themed science activity

The paper boat worked well at first, but as it absorbed the water, it sank.

paper boat for a pirate science activity for kindergarten

Our tub boat wasn’t stable enough and fell over. I think we needed a shorter sail.

pirate boat craft for kids

The raft and washing-up sponge floated well, but both were too big for our half pipes, so we decided smaller washing-up sponge boats would be the best option. These were the perfect size for our pipes.

pirate boats made from washing up sponges with a paper and wooden skewer sail
sponge boats

Another idea is to use corks. We fastened three together with an elastic band and added a sail.

cork boat for a preschool sciece challenge.

Racing pirate boats

Next, we investigated whether the slope’s incline affected the speed of the boat. We used the sponge boats for this because they were the most stable.

Pipes resting down an incline with washing up sponge boats

What do you need to keep constant?

Type of boat? Do they weigh the same?

Amount and force of water – is it hard to keep the same?

Variable

Incline

We set up two different inclines with the same length of pipe and released the boats at the same time.

Other Ideas

Use a straw to blow the boats across a calm surface of water. Try blowing gently and then with more force. Then blow close to the boat and then further away.

Another idea is to use the straw to blow waves across the water.

making and racing boats

Suitable for Early Learning Goal 16

Exploring and using media and materials

They safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques, experimenting with colour, design, texture, form and function.

Key Stage 1 

Everyday Materials

Uses of Everyday Materials

Working Scientifically

Boats made from cork and washing up sponges for a pirate themed science activity
Sink or Float Pirate Boats

Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by Emma Vanstone

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Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Shelli

    May 13, 2015 at 4:29 pm

    I love your website. Thank you for posting all your ideas. This pirate one looks so fun- it is on the list of things to try this summer!

    Reply
  2. Heather

    June 26, 2015 at 2:20 am

    Hi, great ideas and love the added questions to encourage their inquiry skills. I was wondering what the green stands are that are holding up your 1/2 pipe ramps? Plant cages? Also, did you buy the pipes already cut? If so, where? Thanks 🙂

    Reply
  3. YSA Yacht

    January 20, 2016 at 1:25 am

    Love the Pirate Ship made from a cup.

    Reply
  4. Words

    December 17, 2018 at 5:35 pm

    Does the sponge one work? Or does it suck up the water and sink?

    Reply

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