Hobart, Tasmania – A groundbreaking moment for Tasmania’s maritime transport system unfolded as the Spirit of Tasmania IV embarked on a nearly 15,000-nautical-mile epic voyage, setting a new chapter in the island’s ferry service landscape.
From Scotland to Hobart: An Ambitious Delivery
On 30 June 2025, the brand-new Spirit of Tasmania IV finally departed Leith, Scotland—after months of delays—beginning its 14,857‑nautical‑mile (27,500 km) odyssey to Australia. The vessel’s route took it via the Strait of Gibraltar, Cape Verde, Cape Town, Port Louis (Mauritius), and Fremantle, before its grand approach to Hobart, scheduled for late August.
In Fremantle, the ferry will pause for necessary customs, immigration procedures, crew changes, bunkering, provisioning, and a four-day hold before proceeding to Hobart.
Customisation, Training & Infrastructure Readiness
Arriving in Hobart, Spirit of Tasmania IV will undergo a final fit-out: integrating locally produced items such as Tasmanian mattresses, tabletops, cabin furnishings, and artwork. Crucial crew training—encompassing emergency drills, muster procedures, lifeboat deployment, and evacuation exercises—will also take place aboard.
Meanwhile, construction at Devonport is progressing steadily. Upgrades include the construction of passenger and freight handling zones and installation of 27 marine piles for the new wharf and loading gantry—nine completed so far. The upgrades are expected to be ready by October 2026 to early 2027.
What’s at Stake for Tasmania’s Transportation & Tourism
Once deployed, Spirit of Tasmania IV—and soon, its sister ship Spirit of Tasmania V—will redefine capacity on the vital Bass Strait crossing between mainland Australia and Tasmania. With larger size and passenger capacity, these modern ferries will significantly boost freight and travel throughput.
The added capacity will not just improve operational efficiency but also provide economic momentum. Expanded ferry operations stimulate tourism, bolster trade, and enhance connectivity for locals and businesses alike.
Timeline at a Glance
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure from Scotland | Spirit of Tasmania IV leaves Leith in late June 2025 |
| Delivery Voyage Route | Via Gibraltar, Cape Verde, Cape Town, Mauritius, Fremantle, to Hobart |
| Fremantle Stopover | Processing, provisioning, and crew training |
| Hobart Arrival & Fit-Out | Finalizing interiors, installations, and crew exercises in late August |
| Devonport Wharf Completion | Passenger/freight infrastructure expected by late 2026–early 2027 |
| Commercial Service Launch | Spirit of Tasmania IV enters service once Devonport upgrades complete |
Conclusion: A Bright Horizon for Tasmanian Ferries
The Spirit of Tasmania IV’s arrival is more than a journey—it’s a symbol of rebirth for Tasmania’s ferry links. Despite setbacks and delays, the upgraded fleet promises improved capacity, comfort, and connectivity. As Spirit of Tasmania IV prepares to set sail into passenger service, Tasmania anticipates not just a transportation milestone but a revitalized maritime future.
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