It's coming up on 4 years since my first day here on Creeper's Lab, and just over 3 since I first became an Op. I've enjoyed every minute of my stay and I'm sure a lot of others would say the same!

I've seen my fair share of contests; judged a few and taken part in a handful. Everything from houses to castles, from gardens to trains, and even pixel artworks have been featured so far. Something is missing though...Something we have yet to see...

Boats.

Starting today, I'll be looking for a few creative individuals to help me fill the vast area of water amidst my island chain in the eastern seas. Here's a bit of info, and the rules to get you started:

This contest will run from 12:00:00AM EST February 1st until 11:59:59PM EST March 31st 2017. That's right; a full 2 months. You may start building no sooner than February 12th, and information on how to reach the contest area will be posted at that time. I would like everyone to really stretch their creative legs, so this small grace period is to be used for your design process and nothing else.

The designated plot size is 100x45, however, please bear in mind that it is by no means required that you fill this space. The size is simply a rounded estimate in hopes of giving everyone enough room should they choose to dream big. Plots will be situated at water level with solid bottoms; this means no getting your feet wet just to place blocks.

You're free to build whatever you see fit. Anything from sailboats to trawlers to battleships, medieval to modern to fantasy; the choice is yours. My project for the islands surrounding the contest site is to include a wide variety of architectual styles and timeframes, and after the contest the boats will be moved throughout the chain to more appropriate, natural locations.

Entries will be judged on their creativity, use of materials, and general design. Boats with empty hulls (IE: cargo ships with no cargo, crew quarters with no bunks, etc...) will thusly score lower than those with full establishment. As a special stipulation, any entries left unfinished when the contest closes will be sunken at the center of the island chain and their building materials forfeited to the depths. Be sure your project is fully seaworthy before then!

Prizes will include Merit Points, as well as in-game items. The full list will be announced when the build phase opens. Good luck to everyone in planning!

- Media