Travellers can start booking sailings on the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries from Monday.
Spirit of Tasmania IV and V will enter service at the end of October next year, carrying up to 1,800 passengers each – a jump from the current fleet’s 1,400 capacity.
The Finnish-built vessels will also feature 301 cabins compared to 222 on the existing ships, along with 18 pet-friendly cabins where passengers can keep their dogs and cats with them during the nine-hour crossing.
TT-Line chief executive Chris Carbone said the company was confident in the October 2026 timeline.
“If you look behind me you’ll see an incredible amount of construction that’s been done in recent months,” he said at the Devonport terminal site on Friday.
“The marine piling was probably the most complex part of the project and is now complete.”
Tickets will be released in two stages. From 10am Monday, travellers can book sailings from October 31 to December 12, 2026.
The full range of new accommodation types, including pet cabins, family suites and business recliners, will become available by May.
Carbone said a crucial loading gantry had been manufactured in Finland and would arrive in Devonport at the end of January.
“It’s been painted, it’ll be put on a ship in the next few weeks,” he said.
The vessel replacement program has been plagued by delays and cost blowouts for several years.
The new ships boast nearly 60% more vehicle space, with all lanes tall enough for caravans and motorhomes.
They will also feature cinemas, bars, gaming facilities and dedicated children’s areas.
