Spirit of Tasmania

You’ve got to get from mainland Australia to Tasmania. You could fly, but if you’re in Victoria, wouldn’t it appeal more to your sense of adventure to cruise? This massive ferry shuttles passengers between the Spirit of Tasmania Quay ports in Geelong and Devonport.  Enjoy the beautiful views and relaxation from the Spirit of Tasmania's deck, and prepare for a fun adventure as you travel to Tasmania on one of the most well-known Australian ships.

As their website states: "Pack More In, Get More Out" which means you can fill your car with more than you could on a plane ride to Tasmania or on the way back to Australia. So pack the car with the kids, the dog, and adventure gear, and drive aboard this ship. You’ll have everything you need for your fun explorations on either side of the Bass Strait, and, what’s more, it’s more economical than the alternatives, especially when you factor in car rental and so on.

Operators TT-Line have been cruising across the Bass Strait since 1985, but it wasn’t until they brought two Finland-built ferries from Greece that Spirit of Tasmania was born. On September 1st, 2002, they set sail across the Bass Strait for the first time. Note: Spirit Tasmania no longer departs from Port Melbourne and now departs from the Geelong Quay port.

Venture out of Geelong Quay, the shoreline of Port Phillip Bay curving away behind you, through the narrow channel between Queenscliff and Sorrento and out into the Strait. Catch an unparalleled sunrise or sunset (depending on whether you take the night- or daytime crossing) as you glide across those notorious waters bound for Devonport and all the excitement and treasures of Tasmania.

Your voyage takes between 9 and 11 hours. It’s worth factoring in, though, that check-in starts 2.5 hours before departure and closes strictly 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Geelong
Geelong is a port city in Victoria, Australia, located on Corio Bay, 75 kilometres southwest of Melbourne. It is the second-largest Victorian city, with approximately 200,000 people. It was the first Victoria settlement outside of Melbourne, established in 1836. Geelong is a major regional manufacturing, commercial, and service centre. It is a popular tourist destination with its waterfront, beaches, wineries, and historical sites. It is also home to the Geelong Football Club, a central Australian rules football team. Geelong has a vibrant arts scene, numerous galleries and museums, and a dynamic music and performing arts scene. Geelong is a great place to explore and enjoy.

Devonport
Where the Mersey River meets Bass Strait, this northern Tasmanian city boasts beaches with sailing, kayaking, and fishing, a historic lighthouse, a maritime museum, and plenty of non-nautical points of interest. Wander among the beautiful local flora and fauna at the Tasmanian Arboretum or get out of town to explore some of the island’s incredible wilderness, including Cradle Mountain.

Aside from the dramatic ocean views, there’s plenty to keep you entertained during the crossing. Choose from two cinemas showing newly released movies, try your luck on the games machines in the arcade, snuggle up with a book in the reading room or plan your onward adventure in the Tourism Hub. Kids also have dedicated game zones and play areas, plus there are performers and entertainers.

Onboard Facilities	Description
Tourism Hub	Provides travel advice, brochures, and booking assistance for exploring Tasmania.
Wi-Fi & Charging Stations	Stay connected with Wi-Fi available in certain areas and charging stations for devices.
Convenience Store	Stocked with essential items, snacks, and souvenirs.
Passenger Lounges	Comfortable lounges for relaxing, reading, or socializing.
ATM	Accessible for cash withdrawals during the journey.

Hungry sailors descend on the TMK (Tasmanian Market Kitchen) for self-service local island fare, or just grab a simple snack from The Pantry. Drinks are on hand in the ship’s 3 bars. Sink into a cozy chair at the elegant lounge, Bar 7; relax with a beer and your favourite TV shows in The Terrace Lounge Bar, or enjoy the views from Top Deck Lounge. For a quick bite, you can also visit The Pantry, which offers sandwiches, salads, pastries, and snacks.

Relax in comfort in a cozy recliner chair with ocean views to lull you into snooze-mode or choose from double and twin private cabins, opt for a 4-berth bolthole (ideal for families), or grab a bed in a shared cabin.

Accommodations	Description
Deluxe Cabins	Spacious, private cabins with large windows for ocean views featuring a double bed, ensuite bathroom, television, desk, and power outlets. Perfect for those seeking comfort and privacy.
Twin/Four Bed Cabins	Available as Outside Cabins with porthole windows or Inside Cabins (windowless). These feature bunk beds and ensuite bathrooms, which are ideal for families or groups seeking budget-friendly comfort.
Recliners	A more economical choice is a shared lounge with ergonomically designed reclining seats. Great for budget-conscious travelers.
Ocean Recliners	Located in a private section with panoramic sea views, offering enhanced comfort while being cost-effective.
Cots ( Baby Beds )	Cots can be added to most cabins for families travelling with infants, ensuring extra convenience.
Accessible Cabins	These cabins are designed for passengers with reduced mobility, offering additional space, safety features, and ensuite facilities.

Drive on and drive right off: simply follow the signs at the ferry port for check-in, inspection, and parking. Stow your car or motorhome in the car park, or park your bicycle or motorbike for those travelling on two wheels, ready for the onward journey.

Depending on your schedule, choose the crossing that best suits you. The decks offer stunning views of Bass Strait in the day and evening. You can embark in the evening for a sunset sail, a little dinner, and perhaps a nightcap or a movie before retiring to your cabin and waking up fresh in your destination. Alternatively, depart in the morning and enjoy a day at sea, making the most of all the entertainment and facilities on board.

Day Sailings:

• Typically quieter with fewer passengers, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenic views and make the most of the onboard facilities during daylight.
• Passengers can enjoy the journey while staying active, dining, or participating in onboard entertainment.

Night Sailings:

• Offers the opportunity to rest during the crossing, with most passengers opting for cabins or recliners to sleep.
• The journey tends to focus more on relaxation and sleep, making it suitable for travellers who prefer to sleep through the trip and arrive refreshed in the morning.
• Accommodation options are more important for night sailings due to the overnight duration.

Booking online is simple, but it’s essential to be clear on the details: which departure time suits you, what vehicle you’ll be driving (and its make, model, and registration), how many are in your party (including pets), and what sort of accommodation you’d like.

Fare Types:

Standard Fares:

• Moderate flexibility.
• Changes to travel dates are allowed with a small fee.
• Cancellations incur a fee, but a partial refund is provided.

Flexi Fares:

• High flexibility for passengers with uncertain plans.
• Free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure.
• Unlimited changes to travel dates with no additional fees.
• Offers peace of mind for those who may need to adjust their travel.

Red Hot Deal Fares:

• The most budget-friendly option but with limited flexibility.
• No changes or cancellations are allowed once booked.
• Ideal for travellers with fixed plans looking for the best deal.

Vehicle Fares:

• Pricing varies depending on the type and size of the vehicle (e.g., car, motorbike, caravan).
• Passengers can travel with cars, trailers, and larger vehicles, and fares are calculated based on dimensions and inclusions like trailers or rooftop accessories.

As you plan your journey aboard the Spirit of Tasmania, be sure to explore the exciting things to do and activities that await you on both sides of the Bass Strait. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone. Our dedicated Tasmanian travel agents at Tasmania.com are happy to assist with any travel needs through our concierge service, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Image Credits:

2,7: Sean Scott
3: Tourism Tasmania and Melinda Ta
8: Tourism Australia and Graham Freeman
9: Flow Mountain Bike