New Spirit of Tasmania ferry makes maiden voyage, heralding a fresh chapter

Passengers aboard the ferry celebrated the historic moment, capturing photos and enjoying refreshments as the ship departed Geelong on Saturday. Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff, speaking to ABC reporters, expressed pride in the accomplishment, stating, “We’ve stayed the course, and we’ve got it done.”

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman described the Spirit of Tasmania brand as iconic, comparing it to the Sydney Opera House. The new ships were constructed by Finnish company Rauma Marine Constructions, a collaboration praised by Finnish Ambassador to Australia Arto Haapea, who called it “a beautiful story.”

Enthusiasts gathered to witness the historic event. Mitchell Bruce, founder of the Ferries in Tasmania website, shared his lifelong passion for the vessels.

For many passengers, the voyage represented a return home. Celeste Ackerly, traveling with her child and two dogs, was surprised to discover she was on the maiden crossing. “It’s pretty cool to know this is the first time,” she remarked. Brian Munday, concluding a three-and-a-half-month road trip, described the ship as a “nice ship, the finished product is good.”

Sweety Neik, from Melbourne, is embarking on her first Tasmanian adventure, eager to explore Cradle Mountain and Salamanca Market. “It’s very exciting, I was looking forward to [October] 31,” she said.

Premier Rockliff and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent addressed the media as the ship approached the Tasmanian coast. Vincent noted the significance of the moment, stating, “This is a pretty iconic moment, and I think everybody on board felt that last night.” The project, which experienced delays and cost overruns, is viewed as a turning point for the Spirit of Tasmania brand, with hopes for a “new dawn” by November 1, 2026.