Two new generation vessels will bring increased capacity, new accommodation options and upgraded onboard facilities for travellers and pets heading between mainland Australia and Tasmania.
Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V will each introduce additional space for passengers and vehicles, including more than three times the previous caravan capacity.
The ships are designed to carry an additional 470 passengers per sailing and feature 301 cabins across Bass Strait.
Expanded accommodation inventory will open for bookings on September 16, with options including pet friendly cabins for up to two animals, family cabins sleeping up to six guests, deluxe cabins and premium business recliners. Passengers will be able to book up to 12 months ahead.
“These vessels represent a new era for Bass Strait travel, with greater capacity, more accommodation choice and a contemporary onboard experience that is distinctly Tasmanian,” said Chris Carbone, CEO of Spirit of Tasmania.
The ships will also introduce new food and beverage venues including Tasmanian Market Kitchen, Mersey Café and Bar, Maatsuyker Bar, Cradle Lounge and Huon Lounge, with local produce and makers incorporated throughout the onboard experience.
Tasmanian materials and artwork will also feature across the vessels, including Celery Top Pine supplied by Hydrowood, along with Huon Pine and Tasmanian Oak.
Sarah Kingston Clark, Tourism Tasmania CEO, said the additional vehicle and caravan capacity would support visitors looking to explore more of the state by road.
“With greater capacity and accessibility through the new Spirits, more travellers will be able to bring their car, caravan or bikes, giving them the freedom to take their time and discover more of our diverse regions,” Ms Kingston Clark said.
The first passenger sailings will depart on October 31, with Spirit of Tasmania IV leaving Geelong and Spirit of Tasmania V departing Devonport.
