HMAS Moresby (II) was the Royal Australian Navy’s first purpose-built hydrographic survey ship, commissioned on 6 March 1964 and named for the explorer Captain John Moresby. Constructed at the NSW State Dockyard in Newcastle and launched in 1963, she was designed to address the limitations of converted warships previously used for survey work. At 96 metres long and 2,540 tonnes, Moresby was equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic technology, a full flight deck for helicopter operations, and a range of boats and vehicles to support her mission. Her design allowed for extended independent operations and the embarkation of scientific teams from organisations such as CSIRO and Australian universities, reflecting her motto: ‘With Science and Vision.’ The ship’s capabilities revolutionised the RAN’s charting and survey operations, making her one of the most advanced vessels of her type in the world at the time of commissioning.
Throughout her 33-year career, HMAS Moresby played a crucial role in mapping Australia’s coastal waters, including major projects like surveying a safe channel through Swain Reefs for bulk carriers and supporting the development of new navigation systems. She also provided hydrographic training for RAN and allied naval personnel. Moresby reached a historic milestone in 1992, becoming the first RAN vessel to steam one million nautical miles while on survey duty off Arnhem Land. She was decommissioned on 13 November 1997 as the oldest ship in the fleet, having steamed over 1.17 million nautical miles, and was later sold and renamed MV Patricia Anne Hotung. Her legacy endures as a symbol of scientific excellence and maritime exploration in the Royal Australian Navy.
