Although there won't be a shortage of boats available, there is a need for captains for an upcoming regatta.

Captains need to be at least 18 or older and willing to get wet. The catch?

The boats come from vines and might wind up in pies.

Pumpkinfest Director Bill Clark said the search is on for a few hardy souls willing to ride in a hollowed-out pumpkin during the October 14 regatta.

“Pumpkinboat pilots are captains of either paddle boats or motor boats made out of giant pumpkins,” Clark said in an email. “You don't have to grow your boat, you don't even have to make your boat, although you can do either or both.”

The regatta caps Damariscotta's Pumpkin Fest and will be at the town landing Columbus Day morning.

Clark said there are a few stipulations before anyone can clamber into one of the orange boats.

“Captains need to be 18 or older,” he said. “My tip for anyone who wants to participate is come to have fun, and don't be afraid to get wet. Motorboats are very limited in number, with a few hearty captains piloting each year.”

While having fun is the sole point of Pumpkinfest, doing it safely matters more, Clark said.

“While everyone is encouraged to have fun, we emphasize doing it safely,” he said. “There are divers in the water at all times and a fire rescue boat in the water.”

Ben Bulkeley can be reached at 207-633-4620 or bbulkeley@boothbayregister.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BBRegisterBen.