Australia’s national Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour has completed her final circumnavigation of the continent, marking a significant milestone in her 37-year history.

Gifted by the United Kingdom as a bicentenary gift to support youth development, the ship has welcomed nearly 15,000 young Australians since 1988.

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 more than 8000 nautical miles in just under seven months.

Some notable stops included Thursday Island, South Goulburn Island, King George River, Bigge Island, Fremantle, Albany and a whole host of amazing little anchorages and townships, providing more than 300 youth crew members with a unique experience around Australia.

While the crew of Young Endeavour delivered 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 and the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme.

A youth development voyage is characterised by crisis, transition and arrival. Each youth crew member undergoes these phases, emerging with a greater self-awareness, confidence, resilience and perspective. 

For most, it was their first time at sea – and the experience was transformative. The impact ripples back into their communities as they return home with a newfound confidence and maturity. Parents often report increased independence and resilience. 

Jett, a 17-year-old youth crew member from Illawarra, summed it up. 

“Even on day two I still didn’t really know anyone or what I was doing,” he said.

“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’s mother, 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 iconic coastlines, anchored in pristine bays rarely visited by modern vessels, and experienced everything from heavy weather sailing to calm sunsets at sea.

'Young Endeavour didn’t just teach me how to sail, it changed the way I see challenges. Now I run toward them, not away.'

For the ship’s Navy staff crew, the circumnavigation was just as rewarding. 

Leading Seaman Rebecca Churches struggled to pick a favourite stop.

“It’s hard to choose; the coastline of Australia is stunning,” she said.

“But, my favourite stops involved King George Falls, South Goulburn Island, Bigge 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.”

She also shared broader reflections on the voyage. 

“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,” Leading Seaman Churches.

When asked about the job positions on board, Leading Seaman Churches said the program provided 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.

“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 memorable moments ashore. 

In Perth, Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh visited the ship and met with staff and the youth crew, recognising the program’s role in developing Australia’s future leaders.

The tall ship’s distinctive rig and navy blue hull drew crowds wherever she went. Thousands stepped on board during open days to learn about life at sea and what a Young Endeavour voyage entails. 

For many, it was their first time on a square-rigged tall ship, speaking directly with the Navy crew and returning youth crew ambassadors, eager to share their stories.

'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.'

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,” he 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 to 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 [Royal Australian Navy] 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 Young Endeavour’s chapter on Australian circumnavigations is closing, her story is far from over. 

The new tall ship is currently under construction in Australia and will take up the mantle of national sail training vessel in 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, Young Endeavour’s circumnavigation will be remembered not just as a journey around the coastline, but as the final lap of a ship that has inspired generations.