The STS Leeuwin II, Western Australia’s renowned sail training vessel, has embarked on a significant restoration journey after sustaining extensive damage in a collision with a container ship at Fremantle Port nine months ago.
On August 30, 2024, the 333-meter container ship Maersk Shekou collided with the moored Leeuwin II during challenging weather conditions, including wind gusts up to 50 knots. The incident resulted in the dismasting of the Leeuwin II and injuries to two crew members who were aboard at the time. An interim report by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) indicated that the Maersk Shekou struggled to maintain its course due to the severe weather, leading to the collision.
On May 19, 2025, the Leeuwin II was towed from its berth at Fremantle’s B Shed to the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson. There, the 344-tonne vessel was lifted from the water to commence extensive repairs and refitting.
The restoration will involve replacing the ship’s masts, rigging, and sails. Approximately 3,000 lineal meters of Douglas Fir timber have been ordered from Canada for the new masts, and several kilometers of rope and wire will be sourced from across Australia
