Celebrating the completion of our circumnavigation! STS Young Endeavour returns to Sydney

After seven months at sea, STS Young Endeavour, has completed the final circumnavigation of the continent, marking a significant milestone in the ship’s proud 37-year history.

 

From the tropics of Far North Queensland to the rugged cliffs of the Great Australian Bight, from bustling capital cities to remote coastal communities, STS Young Endeavour sailed over 8000 nautical miles in just under 7 months.

 

Some notable stops included Thursday Island, South Goulburn Island, King Georges River, Biggie Island, Fremantle, Albany and a whole host of amazing little anchorages and townships providing over 300 youth crew a unique experience all around this incredible country.

 

Whilst the crew of STS Young Endeavour deliver the life changing youth development voyages throughout each leg of this adventure at sea, the circumnavigation was only made possible through the enduring partnership between the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme.

 

For most, it was their first time at sea, and their lives have now been changed forever. The impact these voyages has on each participant ripples back out into their own communities once they return home and bring with them their new found awareness and confidence. Parents report evidence of increased maturity, independence and resilience.

 

One Youth crew member, summed it up nicely. ‘Even on day two I still didn’t really know anyone or what I was doing’ said 17-year-old Jett from the Illawarra. “But there’s a moment when you’re halfway up the mast, the wind in your face, and the sea stretching endlessly below you – that’s when it hits you how incredible this experience is.

 

Young Endeavour didn’t just teach me how to sail, it changed the way I see challenges – now I run toward them, not away.” Jett said.

 

Jett’s mum Mandy added, “It’s hard for him to sum up just how special that voyage was to him. He truly came home a different kid.”

 

Youth Crew members climbed aloft to furl sails against the backdrop of iconic coastlines, anchored in pristine bays rarely visited by modern vessels, and experienced everything from heavy weather sailing to calm sunsets at sea.

 

For the ship’s RAN staff crew, the circumnavigation was just as rewarding. Leading Seaman Hydrographic Systems Operator (LSHSO) Rebecca Churches found it difficult to choose her favourite stop.

 

“It’s hard to choose, the coastline of Australia is stunning. But, my favourite stops involved King George Falls, South Goulbourn Island, Biggie Island and Crocodile Creek. Most of these are really remote and the isolated nature of them made it a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit.” LS Churches continued to explain her overall highlights.

 

“Highlight one, was learning all about the rich Indigenous history and culture throughout the voyages and places we stopped. Highlight two, was meeting hundreds of young Australians, experiencing the full range of human emotions with them.”

 

When asked about the job positions on board, LS Churches said the program provides a unique posting unlike any other in the Fleet.

 

“If you are willing to work harder than you have before and challenge yourself on both a personal and professional level, then yes, I’d recommend it,” she said.

 

“The youth are, and will forever be, the most rewarding part of the job. Having an impact on other people’s lives, big or small is something that is hard to put into words. The feeling you get as a staff member at the end of a voyage is emotional, rich, and fulfilling. The sense of pride in the youth crew shocks you because the young Australians receiving their certificates on the final day, you’ve only known for 11 days. It is without a doubt the most amazing transition for a bunch of people whilst on board, in less than a fortnight, staff included,” LS Churches said.

 

“If you want it, chase it. If you get there, dive in and embrace the wild life that being a staff member on Young Endeavour is all about.”

 

The circumnavigation also featured some memorable highlights ashore.

 

In Perth, the Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon. Matt Keogh MP, visited the ship and met with both staff and youth crew, recognising the importance of the program in developing Australia’s future leaders.

 

The tall ship’s distinctive rig and Navy blue hull drew crowds wherever she went, with thousands of Australians stepping on board during open days to learn about life at sea and what a voyage of discovery and adventure on Young Endeavour entails.

 

For many, it was their first chance to step aboard a square-rigged tall ship and speak directly with the RAN crew and returning Youth Crew ambassadors who were thrilled to share their stories of their adventure of a lifetime.

 

Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Andrew Leupen reflected on the significance of the final circumnavigation.

 

“I discovered this amazing little ship whilst I was in Sea Training Group as the Fleet Navigating Officer during a workup a couple of years ago,” LCDR Leupen said.

 

“It was immediately obvious to me that what this ship is doing with the youth of Australia is absolutely incredible.

 

“This program literally changes 24 lives every two weeks after only 11-13 days at sea. The positive impact we have on these youngsters goes with them back into their communities, to their peer groups, to their families and is an influence on Australian society that is immeasurable but profound.

 

“The RAN should be very proud of the 37 years of legacy that Young Endeavour has delivered – nearly 16,000 young Australians have come through this ship in that time.

 

“The Circumnavigation of Australia 2025 will be an adventure that I will reflect on in the years to come. The youth crew that I had the privilege to meet, challenge and watch grow will endure in my memory.

 

“The next generation is simply inspiring and I just hope that they look back on their voyage with us and dare to be brave, do the unimaginable and be the change they want to see in the world.” While the chapter is closing on Young Endeavour’s Australian circumnavigations, the story is far from over.

 

The new replacement tall ship is currently under construction in Australia and will take up the mantle of national Sail Training Vessel in the coming years.

 

In the meantime, there are still opportunities for young Australians to join the voyage of a lifetime. Applications for the 2026 voyage program are now open at youngendeavour.gov.au. As one youth crew member, Mattesse from Launceston, Tasmania, put it: “It taught me that when you’re surrounded by people who believe in you, you can achieve anything you set your mind to,” he said. “Being brave enough to step over the gangway is the first step towards what will be the best 11 days of your life.”

 

For the Navy, for the youth of Australia, and for everyone who has sailed aboard, the circumnavigation of Young Endeavour will be remembered not just as a journey around the coastline, but as the final lap of a ship that has inspired generations.

 

Applications are open now for a 2026 Young Endeavour Youth Scheme voyage. You can apply here: https://youngendeavour.gov.au/apply-now