The newest addition to Tasmania’s Spirit ferry fleet has been spotted sailing along the state’s north west coast today.
Spirit of Tasmania IV passed Cape Wickham on King Island around 5:30am before making its way past Wynyard, Burnie and Devonport on its maiden voyage to Hobart.
The vessel is completing a six-week journey from Finland that has taken it past France, Africa and across the Indian Ocean.
A community celebration has been organised at Bluff Playground in Devonport’s Mersey Bluff Precinct from 3:30pm to 5:30pm today.
“If you are based in or close to Devonport, we welcome you to join us for a community celebration,” Devonport City Council said.
The welcome event will feature a Rotary sausage sizzle and children’s entertainment as the ship is ceremonially welcomed into Tasmanian waters.
Following the Devonport festivities, the ferry will continue its journey south to Hobart, where it is scheduled to dock at Macquarie Wharf at 10am tomorrow.
The Spirit of Tasmania IV is the first of two new vessels designed to increase capacity on the busy Bass Strait route connecting mainland Australia with Tasmania.
The ferry will undergo its final fit-out in Hobart before officially entering service late next year.
The new vessel aims to boost passenger and freight capacity on the popular route, addressing growing demand for travel between Tasmania and the mainland.
