Spirit of Tasmania update

Spirit of Tasmania IV

The Tasmanian Government continues to explore leasing or chartering options for Spirit of Tasmania IV as it seeks the best possible financial return for Tasmanians.

Options to lease or charter the vessel to a third party continue to be sought through TT-Line’s specialist broker, Clarksons, with TT-Line to provide advice to Government by the end of January 2025.

The ship remains in Leith, Scotland while this work continues with TT-Line extending its lease a further 30 days at an average weekly cost of $23, 915 AUD, plus ancillary costs.

As previously noted, this is significantly less than the cost of berthing the vessel for the first 30 days, which was at a weekly cost of $47,534 AUD plus ancillary costs.

Ongoing charges for ancillary services are accrued on a ‘do and charge’ basis and will be made public when finalised.

As advised in December 2024, crewing costs would be incurred regardless of where the vessel was located and are currently estimated at $380,000 per month.

Crewing costs in Tasmania would be significantly higher due to differing domestic requirements, resulting in increased onboard crew numbers.

Berth 3 Project

Works at Berth 3 have been progressing well, with more than 80 per cent of pile driving works completed prior to Christmas.

Excavation and concrete works will soon begin in preparation for the major marine construction works starting early in 2025.

Activity on the site will increase over the coming weeks, and progress updates will continue to be provided.

Tourism and Hospitality Support Package Update

The Tasmanian Government continues to work closely with the tourism and hospitality industry, together with TT-Line and Tourism Tasmania to progress the comprehensive support package that was announced in October 2024.

The $28 million package aims to boost visitation around the State and support the local tourism and hospitality sectors, while the berthing infrastructure for the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels is completed.