The Australian Wooden Boat Festival (AWBF) is set to enchant maritime enthusiasts once again from February 7th to 10th, 2025, along Hobart's picturesque waterfront. Celebrating the rich tapestry of wooden boat craftsmanship and maritime heritage, this biennial event is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
Festival Highlights:
Parade of Sail: The festival will commence with a breathtaking Parade of Sail, featuring over 200 wooden boats gracefully navigating the River Derwent into Sullivans Cove. This spectacle offers prime viewing opportunities along the riverbanks as vessels make their majestic entrance.
IMAGE CREDIT: AWBF Indigenous Craft: A significant highlight of the 2025 festival is the inclusion of Te Karangatahi, Australia's first and only traditionally carved Māori waka taua (war canoe). This magnificent vessel symbolizes the deep-rooted maritime connections between Australia, New Zealand, and the broader Pacific region.
IMAGE CREDIT: AWBF Tall Ships: The festival will showcase a fleet of eleven tall ships, each with its own, storied past. Notable vessels include:
HMB Endeavour Replica: An Australian-built replica of Captain Cook's ship, renowned for its historical accuracy and intricate craftsmanship.
James Craig: Launched in 1874, this three-masted barque has been meticulously restored and stands as a testament to authentic heritage preservation.
Young Endeavour: A purpose-built sail training ship that has provided transformative experiences for over 14,000 youth since 1988.
IMAGE CREDIT: AWBF
Festival attendees will have the opportunity to explore these vessels, participate in sailing adventures, and delve into the rich histories they embody.
Shipwrights Village: Experience the artistry of wooden boat building firsthand. The Shipwrights Village will feature live demonstrations of traditional skills such as caulking, roving, and rope work. Visitors can engage with master craftsmen, observe boats being constructed on-site, and even try their hand at using traditional tools.
Pacific Seafarers Precinct: Delve into the maritime traditions of the Pacific region through interactive workshops, demonstrations, and storytelling sessions. This precinct offers a unique opportunity to learn from navigators, artists, and maritime artisans, highlighting the diverse seafaring cultures that have traversed the Pacific Ocean for generations.
Plan Your Visit:
With the festival attracting a global audience, it's advisable to arrange accommodations and travel plans well in advance. Hobart offers a range of lodging options to suit various preferences and budgets.
IMAGE CREDIT: AWBF
For comprehensive details on the festival program, participating vessels, and event schedules, please visit the official Australian Wooden Boat Festival website:
Join us in celebrating the timeless allure of wooden boats and the maritime cultures that continue to inspire seafarers and enthusiasts worldwide.
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