Abstract: Apparatus and method for containment of well fluids flowing from a subsea well fluid leak feature a containment structure positioned over the well blowout, and an elongated collection conduit supported with an upper end exposed to atmospheric pressure above sea level and a lower end in fluid communication with surrounding sea water over an upper opening of the containment structure. Collected well fluid rises in the elongated conduit due to a lower specific gravity of the well fluid relative to the sea water, and is discharged from the elongated conduit at a location above sea level to a receiving vessel. The open piping system allows for easier installation of the separate containment system and collection conduit, and allows sea water to be displaced from the open lower end of the conduit above the containment structure under filling of the conduit with rising well fluid.