The two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels have undertaken their inaugural passenger sailings across Bass Strait, with 1,261 people travelling on the ships on Saturday.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the first passenger sailings delivers on the Government’s generational plan to future-proof capacity for the state’s tourism and freight industries.
“We have now entered a new era for Bass Strait travel,” Premier Rockliff said.
“This is an intergenerational investment that will serve Tasmanians for decades to come.
“It was fantastic to share this incredible moment with so many other passengers onboard, and to welcome them all to Devonport.”
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent, acknowledged the hard work from across Tasmania to deliver this project.
“Spirits IV and V are filled to the brim with Tasmanian content, delivered by local tradies and businesses,” Minister Vincent said.
“Local construction firms have completed the Spirit Quay in Devonport, and it looks magnificent.
“I want to acknowledge the Premier, Chris Carbone and Ken Kanofski for the work undertaken to get us to today.
”I also want to thank all the TT-Line staff and crew for an incredible inaugural journey.
“These new vessels represent how our Government is delivering for Tasmanians.”
Minister Vincent said increases in passenger and freight capabilities puts Tasmanian tourism and industry in the box seat to benefit for the next 40 years.
“I look forward to seeing them ply the strait for years to come,” he said.
