Reviews & Ratings for the Spirit-Of-Tasmania-4

The 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' and 'Spirit of Tasmania V', currently docked in Hobart since August 23, require vital hull enhancements as a safeguard against rare extreme weather scenarios and potential power outages during operations on the Bass Strait. Details regarding the scope of these modifications are still being finalized. This hull upgrade necessity was identified by a dedicated recovery team formed to tackle issues stemming from the vessels' service following various public controversies. The requirement for these enhancements is linked to new fenders installed at the wharf, which are designed to absorb the vessels' impact upon berthing. Adjustments to both the fenders and the ships will be necessary. Notably, the hull work on 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' will be performed without the need for dry docking. Conversely, the 'Spirit of Tasmania V' is slated to undergo its hull modifications in Rauma before making its way to Tasmania. Following approximately two months in Hobart, 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' will relocate to Victoria, preparing to commence operations linking Geelong and Devonport by October 2026. In conjunction with these plans, a new berthing facility for the two vessels is underway in Devonport. The updated docking arrangement at Devonport and Geelong will utilize a specialized system that effectively draws the ferries towards the wharf. The recovery team is collaborating closely with TasPorts and the Harbour Master to enhance wharf infrastructure, ensuring secure berthing capabilities during unusual weather events. For further details, visit the report with photos at ABC News.

The 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' is set to arrive in Tasmanian waters on August 22, marking the culmination of an extraordinary six-week expedition that included navigating past iconic landmarks in France and Africa, and traversing the vast Indian Ocean. The ferry will make its initial ceremonial stop in Devonport after successfully passing Cape Wickham at 5:20 a.m., Rocky Cape at 12:30 p.m., and Burnie at 2:10 p.m. To celebrate this significant occasion, a welcome event is scheduled from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., featuring a Rotary sausage sizzle along with entertainment for children. Following the festivities, the vessel will continue its journey southward to Hobart, with an expected arrival at Macquarie Wharf on August 23 at 10 a.m. The Spirit of Tasmania IV is the first of two new ferries intended to enhance capacity along the popular Bass Strait route between mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Rauma Marine Construction, the renowned Finnish shipbuilder, has successfully addressed the previously identified issues with the liquid natural gas (LNG) system on the 'Spirit of Tasmania IV.' Following a series of sea trials, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced on June 22 that the ferry is set to depart from Scotland en route to Australia in just 10 days. The anticipated voyage will span approximately six weeks, with a scheduled arrival in Hobart this August for final fit-outs. However, completion of its dedicated berth in Devonport is projected for at least October 2026, leaving the future of the ferry in limbo until it can begin transporting passengers between Tasmania and the mainland. The two new ferries are designed with a dual fuel system, allowing operation on both diesel and LNG. The upgrade of LNG facilities in Devonport is expected to attract over $70 million in private investments, generate 150 construction jobs, and create 15 ongoing employment positions. Moreover, shifting to LNG is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 50,000 tonnes, marking a significant step towards greener maritime transport.

On the morning of June 19, the 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' departed from Leith docks in Edinburgh, marking a significant shift in its operational plans. Initially, in December 2024, it was announced that the vessel would remain docked in Edinburgh until the following year, due to its oversized dimensions posing challenges for its intended ports. TT-Line, the operator of the ferry, had been in discussions with a broker to lease the ship, but no agreement was finalized. In response to the ongoing situation, the Tasmanian government directed the operator to move the ferry, igniting a political controversy in Australia. Concerns arose regarding the readiness of a new berth to accommodate both the 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' and its sister ship, 'Spirit of Tasmania V', with estimates suggesting availability might not come until late 2026 or even 2027. In light of this unfolding drama, Tasmania's infrastructure minister, Michael Ferguson, along with the chairman of state-owned TT-Line, resigned amid the turmoil in August 2024. Currently, TT-Line has been incurring weekly berthing costs of A$47,534 (£24,031) at Forth Ports.

Rauma Marine Constructions is currently implementing important technical modifications to the LNG systems of the Spirit of Tasmania fleet. On June 6, 2023, the shipbuilder announced successful adjustments to the 'Spirit of Tasmania V', which have already passed testing at their Rauma shipyard and during rigorous sea trials. Following the successful upgrade of the first vessel, preparations are now underway to perform the same improvements on the 'Spirit of Tasmania IV' in the upcoming days. After the modifications are completed, the vessel will be subjected to a port trial to ensure everything is functioning correctly. If these tests are successful, an extensive multi-day sea trial will follow, paving the way for the ship's eventual launch to Tasmania. This proactive approach aims to ensure the reliable operations of the vessels as they prepare to serve their routes.