The newest Spirit of Tasmania ferry will sail into Tasmanian waters tomorrow, completing its maiden voyage from Finland.
After a six-week journey that has taken it past France, Africa and across the Indian Ocean, Spirit of Tasmania IV is due to reach the state on Friday afternoon.
Ferry operator TT-Line says the vessel will first make a ceremonial stop in Devonport, after passing Cape Wickham at 5:20am, Rocky Cape at 12:30pm and Burnie at 2:10pm.
“If you are based in or close to Devonport, we welcome you to join us for a community celebration at Bluff Playground, Mersey Bluff Precinct,” TT-Line said.
The welcome event will run from 3:30pm to 5:30pm and feature a Rotary sausage sizzle and children’s entertainment, TT-Line said.
From there, the ferry will head south to Hobart, where it is scheduled to dock at Macquarie Wharf at 10am on Saturday morning.
Although the ship’s debut has been delayed, its arrival marks a major milestone for Tasmania’s ferry fleet.
The new vessel is the first of two designed to boost capacity on the busy Bass Strait route between the mainland and Tasmania.
It will undergo its final fit-out in Hobart before officially entering service late next year.
Got photos of the arrival? Send them to [email protected]
