Tasmania’s multi-million-dollar Spirit of Tasmania saga could be nearing resolution, as shipbuilders prepare to test a fix for a fuel system fault that has grounded both new vessels.
Engineers are working to address the technical problem, with testing of a potential solution now imminent, according to operator TT-Line.
The issue emerged when Spirit V underwent sea trials at the Finnish shipyard, revealing issues with the vessel’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel system that also affect its sister ship.
“Shipbuilder RMC continues to work with TT-line to rectify an issue identified with the LNG system following sea trials on Spirit of Tasmania V,” a TT-Line spokesperson said.
“A modified system will be tested on Spirit V during further sea trials in coming days and if successful will be replicated on Spirit of Tasmania IV.”
The LNG system fault was discovered during Spirit V’s second round of sea trials in mid-May, forcing TT-Line to halt Spirit IV’s planned departure from Scotland.
Spirit IV had been scheduled to depart its temporary berth at Leith on May 26 for the journey to Hobart, where it will undergo final fit-out.
The vessels are equipped with Wärtsilä LNGPac systems – sophisticated dual-fuel technology that allows the ferries to run on both liquefied natural gas and diesel.
Any repair costs are being covered under warranty with RMC, protecting Tasmanian taxpayers from additional expenses on the already over-budget project.
The LNG system issue is the latest setback for the new ferries, which were originally scheduled to enter service in 2024 but have been delayed until at least October 2026 due to delays in constructing berthing infrastructure in Devonport.
“TT-Line will continue to update Tasmanians on next steps,” the spokesperson added.
