Our story
Built to protect. Saved from scrap. Sailing again.
Once a ship that fought to protect our oceans. Today, a ship that inspires others to do the same.
Fifty years of service
The timeline
Built to protect
MV Steve Irwin's story began in Scotland in 1975, when she was launched as WESTRA, a fisheries protection vessel built for endurance, challenging conditions and a life at sea.
Born to protect. Destined to make history.
The eco battle ship
Acquired by Sea Shepherd and briefly renamed Robert Hunter before becoming MV Steve Irwin, she became flagship of the international fleet. Under Captain Paul Watson and successive captains and volunteer crews, she confronted illegal fishing, whaling and the exploitation of marine wildlife, and starred in Whale Wars.
She became more than a vessel. She became a voice for the ocean.
A new life, a new mission
Facing the prospect of being scrapped, she was saved by Australian not-for-profit Ship4Good Inc. On 19 October 2019 she was relaunched in Williamstown, Melbourne, to inspire and educate people about ocean conservation through art, entertainment and innovation.
The battles may have changed, but the mission continues.
Against the odds
A mechanically decommissioned vessel, then COVID-19. In 2022 she was towed 600 nautical miles to Newcastle, NSW, for four years of mechanical restoration, compliance work and repainting by volunteers and specialists. In April 2026 she returned to Melbourne's Docklands under her own power.
Preserving a ship is itself a story of conservation.
A living ship, an open invitation
Despite COVID, relocation and limited access at a commercial shipyard, more than 30,000 people have come aboard for tours, live music, exhibitions, talks, community events and school programs.
Explore. Experience. Learn. Be inspired.
A destination with purpose
Plans include a licensed plant-based food and hospitality offering, an ethical tattoo studio, creative exhibition spaces and expanded immersive experiences, plus an annual research voyage in Port Phillip Bay.
Not just a venue. An experience with a purpose.
Why she matters
Eighteen campaigns. Twice around the world.
Her story connects five decades of maritime service, environmental activism, international volunteerism and global media, and shows the impact determined people can have together.
The three pillars
From direct action to
collective action.
Education & Inspiration
Sharing extraordinary stories and real-world experiences to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates, innovators and changemakers.
School programs →Conservation & Innovation
Supporting practical ocean conservation, marine research, circular economy initiatives and new approaches to environmental challenges.
Innovation →Entertainment, Art & Music
Using creativity, culture and memorable experiences to bring people together and support the ship's ongoing preservation.
What's on →Come aboard. Be part of the story. Help shape what comes next.