Community turns out for Leeuwin II visit as keen sailors explore the ship and experience a day on the waters

Crowds turned out in strong numbers to welcome the tall ship Leeuwin II on its three-day visit to Albany last week, with people able to explore the vessel and experience life at sea. The visit included two open days on March 20 and 21, followed by a sail day on March 22 giving visitors the chance to step aboard and take part in a hands-on sailing experience. Leeuwin voyage co-ordinator Anne Bolton said they were met with overwhelming support from both locals and visitors. “We were absolutely delighted with the response that we had from the City of Albany residents but also visitors to Albany that were excited to see the ship,” she said. Ms Bolton said the open days allowed people explore the vessel and learn more about the opportunities and programs provided. “They got to speak with the captain and crew and other volunteers, explore the ship, talk about our youth adventure training programs, get to climb the rigging and just experience what it’s like to be on a ship,” she said. Ms Bolton said they had about 120 passengers on board. “On our sail day we had a lot of climbing, pulling the lines, so passengers on the day sail were helping set the sails, and unfurl the sails and were able to get involved with sailing a tall, masted ship,” she said. “We had a very positive response from visitors and passengers wanting to learn more about our different voyages, but in particular our youth adventure voyages.” Ms Bolton said it was a great opportunity to reach out to past and future Leeuwin sailors and she looked forward to coming back to Albany. “It was a lovely opportunity to reach out to people that had sailed on the Leeuwin many years ago and have put their children through the Leeuwin program but to also reach out and engage with new volunteers,” she said. “We also signed up lots of new volunteers in the City of Albany and surrounding regions that are happy to get involved with the Leeuwin. “The staff and crew of the Leeuwin appreciated the warm welcome from the City of Albany and it’s a city that has a very warm place in the Leeuwin’s heart. “It was wonderful to be back and we’re looking forward to be back again next year.”