TT-Line has taken ownership of the new Spirit of Tasmania IV ferry following a handover ceremony at the Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) shipyard in Finland.
The milestone marks a significant step forward in the multi-year project to upgrade the Bass Strait ferry service, which has been plagued with extensive delays and cost blowouts.
TT-Line Managing Director Bernard Dwyer said the new ferry is now ready for final preparations at home in Tasmania before it begins service on a date still to be confirmed.
“While there are some very minor works to be completed by RMC, we are delighted with the vessel that we are taking possession of,” he said.
“We know Spirit of Tasmania IV will serve Tasmania and all those who travel on her between mainland Australia and the island state very well.”
“We are excited to take this next significant step in the project.”
The new Spirit of Tasmania ferries are larger and more modern than the current vessels, with greater capacity for passengers, vehicles and freight.
They are built to withstand the often-challenging sea conditions in Bass Strait.
The new vessels will operate on the route between Geelong and Devonport, replacing the current Spirit of Tasmania I and II ferries, which were built in the 1990s.
“This vessel is a fine example of the strong shipbuilding expertise in Rauma,” President of Rauma Marine Constructions Mika Nieminen said.
“We wish Spirit of Tasmania IV all the best on its journeys.”
The upgrade project is the largest single export deal between Finland and Australia to date, Nieminen said.
