STS Young Endeavour: A Festival of Sails 2025 Highlight
The majestic tall ship STS Young Endeavour took centre stage at the 2025 Festival of Sails, playing a pivotal role as the official start boat for the 182nd Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race. This historic event marked a significant moment for both the crew of the Young Endeavour and the thousands who witnessed the spectacle unfold.
Leading the Fleet with History and Tradition
On Saturday, January 25, the STS Young Endeavour anchored its place in Festival history by firing its gold-plated cannons to signal the start of Australia’s oldest sporting event. With over 200 yachts jostling for position on the start line in Port Phillip Bay, the tall ship provided an awe-inspiring sight for spectators and competitors alike. Hosting VIPs, government officials, and race management aboard, the Young Endeavour delivered an unforgettable opening to the Festival.
“It was an absolute privilege for STS Young Endeavour to serve as the Official Start Boat for the 182nd Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race,” said Lieutenant Commander Andrew Leupen, Commanding Officer of STS Young Endeavour. “Hosting VIPs, government officials, and the race management team onboard was an honour, and firing the cannon to signal the start of this historic race was a truly thrilling moment.”
For the first time ever, the Festival live streamed the Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race to both social media and the Festival’s Big Screen, allowing everyone to enjoy the majestic sight. The live broadcast garnered over 5,000 online viewers, bringing the excitement of the start line to audiences far and wide.
For the crew of the Young Endeavour, many of whom were experiencing such an event for the first time, the opportunity to be part of this iconic race added a unique layer of excitement. “Watching over 200 yachts seamlessly jostle into position on the start line was nothing short of spectacular,” added Leupen.
Community Engagement at Wangim Walk
After its role in the Passage Race, the STS Young Endeavour docked at Wangim Walkadjacent the Yacht Club for two days of community engagement, giving Festival attendees the opportunity to explore the ship up close. Over the course of January 26 and 27, more than 1,100 visitors stepped aboard during one of the largest Open Days the Young Endeavour has hosted in recent years.
“Seeing the smiles on so many faces was inspiring,” said Lieutenant Commander Leupen. “We hope it encourages many to join us on a voyage later this year as we circumnavigate this great country.”
Visitors were able to immerse themselves in the ship’s history, learning about its origins as a gift from the United Kingdom to Australia in 1988 and its ongoing mission as part of the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme. Designed to foster leadership and resilience, the program continues to inspire young Australians through the challenges of sailing.
Looking Ahead
The STS Young Endeavour’s participation in the Festival of Sails 2025 was a standout moment, not only for its historical significance but also for the connection it fostered with the Geelong community. “We had an incredible time at the Festival of Sails this year and are already looking forward to returning in 2026 for more unforgettable moments on the water,” said Lieutenant Commander Leupen.
For those who missed the magic of the Passage Race, you can relive the stunning start of the race by watching the live-streamed video on our Facebook page.
The STS Young Endeavour was a shining example of the Festival’s ability to combine rich maritime history with vibrant community experiences, ensuring its legacy as a highlight of the Geelong waterfront. Learn more about the STS Young Endeavour here.
