ALL ABOARD THE UMITAKA MARU! OPEN SHIP TOUR
Calling all AJS-TAS members, maritime lovers and nautical enthusiasts – this is your chance to experience something extraordinary! Don’t miss it!
After 5 long years, the iconic training and research vessel from Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology is once again hosting an open ship tour. Join us as the Umitaka Maru docks on her annual voyage to Tasmania, and step aboard to:
⚓ Explore the ship
⚓ Meet the crew, cadets and scientists
⚓ Dive into the world of maritime research
Why it’s special
The Umitaka Maru isn’t just any ship – she’s Hobart’s cherished maritime friend! For more than 15 years, she’s built a bond with our community that no other port on her 4-month journey can claim. In fact, among all the Antarctic research and supply vessels that visit our shores each year from around the world, the Umitaka Maru is the only one that has a relationship of this nature. After a 5-year pause due to COVID, it’s time to rekindle this special connection and celebrate our shared history.
When and Where
When: Saturday, 8 February
Time: 2pm – 4pm
Where: Macquarie Wharf, Hobart
The specific wharf where the Umitaka Maru will berth will not be confirmed until its arrival on Friday. We will notify you of the wharf number as soon as the information is available.
Cost: Free
RSVP: RSVPs are essential for this event! Please register by Friday, 31 January.
We recommend registering even if your availability is uncertain at this time, as you will not be able to board the ship otherwise.
Registration Information
For security purposes, you will be required to provide the following information when you register:
Family name
Given name
Photo ID (document type)
Photo ID (document number)
Photo ID (expiry date)
Country of Citizenship
Date of Birth
Other important information
- Please wear flat, enclosed shoes on the day (strictly no sandals or high heels are permitted).
- Kindly note that photography is strictly prohibited in the wharf area, and all individuals entering must have submitted identification during registration.
- It is important that all participants arrive by the 2pm start time, as the entire assembled group will be escorted to the vessel together at this time.
A short film chronicling the ship’s voyage from 2017 is available on YouTube.
We are also hosting a festive Welcome BBQ for the ship’s crew, cadets and scientists together with AJS-TAS members, friends and the Antarctic community. Don’t miss out—register separately for the BBQ here.