'Little Blue Boat' has its 'soul back' ahead of return to water

The Sea Breeze, affectionately called the Little Blue Boat by Hobart residents, has returned to the water after an 18-month restoration in Franklin, south of Hobart. The beloved 50-year-old vessel sustained damage in 2024 when a severe storm unmoored it and sent it crashing against rocks. The boat, officially named Sea Breeze, was built by Robin Attrill in the early 1970s and launched at Macquarie Wharf in 1976.

It held a special place in Hobart's annual commute to the Brooker Highway, with the Attrill family frequently using it for fishing trips and adventures. However, the boat required regular repairs and maintenance, with the family regularly putting it on a slip for upkeep. In August 2024, a severe storm unmoored the boat, damaging it severely.

After being sold for a symbolic $1 to the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, the boat underwent a major restoration project led by volunteers and students. The centre held an online poll to select the boat's new color, with 90% opting for Bondi Blue. The restoration team worked tirelessly to repair the hull, replace ribs and planks, and paint the boat.

Today, the boat was lifted into the Huon River via crane for the first time since restoration began. Head shipwright and trainer at the centre, Cody Horgan, expressed excitement over the boat regaining its energy and vitality. The family of the late Robin Attrill, who passed away in June, saw their beloved boat return to the water for the first time in over five decades.

However, further work is needed to fully restore the Little Blue Boat, including replacing the mast, before it can be unveiled at next year's Wooden Boat Festival. The Wooden Boat Centre is currently seeking expressions of interest from an organization that can take the boat on and use it for community activities.