FRANKLIN – The iconic ‘Little Blue Boat’, officially known as Sea Breeze, made its triumphant return to the water today, Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin. The relaunch marks the culmination of an extensive community-driven restoration effort, nearly two years after the vessel was severely damaged in a storm.

For approximately 50 years, Sea Breeze was a cherished landmark, a distinctive blue presence beside Hobart’s Brooker Highway at Montrose Bay, capturing the hearts of generations of Tasmanians. Built in the early 1970s by respected Tasmanian boatbuilder Robin Attrill, the boat became an unofficial symbol of the southern Tasmanian coastline.

However, on August 27, 2024, a severe storm ripped the vessel from its moorings, leaving it badly damaged on rocks near the Montrose boardwalk. Following the incident, community members rallied to recover the boat, and the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin took on its custodianship for a symbolic sum of $1, committing to its restoration.

The restoration project has been a testament to community spirit, involving hundreds of volunteer hours, supported by donations from the public, local businesses, students, and apprentices. Working alongside the Centre’s experienced shipwrights, volunteers meticulously repaired the hull, replaced structural components and decking, and stripped decades of paint. Sustainable Timbers generously donated replacement timber, including Tasmanian Celery Top Pine for planks and Blue Gum for the keel, while International Paints supplied the necessary paint. A private donor also funded a replacement engine, according to reports.

In a nod to its enduring public affection, the community participated in an online vote to choose the boat’s new colour, ultimately selecting ‘Bondi Blue’.

Cody Horgan, Lead Shipwright at the Wooden Boat Centre, highlighted the profound impact of the project, stating that the restoration had become “much more than simply repairing a boat,” representing what can be achieved when a community unites to save something so meaningful.

The relaunch holds particular significance following the recent passing of Sea Breeze’s original builder, Robin Attrill, with members of the Attrill family invited to attend the event.

While Sea Breeze is now back on the water, final fit-out and mast restoration will continue while the vessel is moored behind the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin. Plans are in place to present the fully restored boat at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival in February 2027. The Centre is also seeking expressions of interest from not-for-profit organisations to become the long-term custodian of Sea Breeze, with the hope that the vessel will remain in southern Tasmania.

Readers can find more details and images of the restoration process on the ABC News Tasmania website.