As we approach the end of 2024, RV travellers are eagerly anticipating the arrival of two new Spirit ferries, promising to elevate the travel experience between the mainland and the Apple Isle. Despite some challenges with port infrastructure, the new vessels are set to sail by Christmas, bringing a host of improvements that will benefit RV on loading, passenger comfort and off boarding the ferry.

The new ferries, Spirit of Tasmania IV and V, are designed to accommodate up to 1800 passengers and boast a 4098-lane metre capacity for vehicles. Due to ongoing upgrades at Devonport’s Berth 3, the ships will initially operate with the capacity of the old ferries, carrying 1400 passengers and 1675-lane metres of vehicles which will give extra elbow room for those lucky to be travelling with potentially reduced loading times.

Tassie Premier Jeremy Rockliff highlighted the significant benefits the new ships will bring, even with the initial berthing arrangements limiting capacity to that of the old ships. “Spirit IV is much more efficient when it comes to freight and a new freight loading system,” he said. “It’s safer for caravans and campervans and vehicles with the wider lanes, it provides a much better customer experience and is more fuel efficient.”

Construction of Spirit of Tasmania V began with a traditional steel cutting ceremony in 2022, marking the start of this exciting project. Although the infrastructure upgrades at Devonport have faced delays, with Berth 3 now expected to be fully functional by 2026 and an interim solution has been implemented. Upgrades worth $50 million are being made to Berth 1, allowing the new vessels to carry the same number of passengers, passenger vehicles, and freight containers as the current ships.

The introduction of these state-of-the-art ferries comes at the perfect time to capitalise on Tasmania's compelling attractions for travellers of all kinds. The new wider lanes combined with better safety features for caravans and campervans, and a superior overall customer experience is exciting for motorhome owners in particular as many found the old ferries a little scary on the vehicle deck during loading and unloading. The focus on providing a more enjoyable and efficient journey for RV owners will pay dividends to the apple isle in the form of increase visitation and return journeys for RV owners seeking out the best Tasmania has to offer.

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