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 sail? This massive ferry shuttles passengers between the ports of the Spirit of Tasmania Quay in Geelong, to 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.

Pack the car with the kids and the dog and simply drive aboard this ship. You’ll have everything you need for your onward and fun explorations on either side of the Bass Strait and, what’s more, it’s more economical than the alternative, 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 1 September 2002, they set sail across the Bass Strait for the first time. Note: Spirit Tasmania does not depart 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.

Geelong
Geelong is a port city in Victoria, Australia, located on Corio Bay, 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. It is the second-largest Victorian city, with a population of 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 center. It is a popular tourist destination with its waterfront, beaches, wineries, and historical sites. It is also home to the Geelong Football Club, a major Australian rules football team. Geelong also has a vibrant arts scene, with 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, and a maritime museum, plus 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 wonderful wilderness including Cradle Mountain. Image thanks to Sean Scott.

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. Image thanks to Tourism Australia & Graham Freeman.

Hungry sailors descend on 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 favorite TV shows in The Terrace Lounge Bar, or enjoy the views from Top Deck Lounge.

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.

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, for those traveling on two wheels, park your bicycle or motorbike, ready for the onward journey. Image thanks to Flow Mountain Bike.

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.

Booking online is simple and straightforward, but it’s important 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.