The Spirit of Tasmania IV has finally reached Hobart after a massive 27,515-kilometre journey from Scotland, marking a major milestone in the state’s transport future. But despite the excitement, the ship won’t be carrying passengers anytime soon.
The vessel, along with its twin Spirit V, is designed to carry more people, vehicles, and freight than the current aging fleet. Spirit IV will now undergo its final fit-out in Hobart, with contributions from 80 Tasmanian businesses supplying everything from mattresses to artwork.
Spirit V remains in Finland for now and will relocate later this year to avoid sea ice before making its way to Tasmania in early 2026. However, both ships will remain idle until a new dock in Devonport is completed, which isn’t expected until October 2026.
Locals gathered in Devonport to catch a glimpse of Spirit IV as it passed by its future home. Many expressed hope that the new ships will boost tourism and repay the investment through increased visitor numbers and economic growth.
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