The newly built SPIRIT OF TASMANIA IV will be temporarily stored at a Scottish shipyard while the Tasmanian government considers leasing options until its home berth is ready. The ferry must leave its Finnish shipyard before winter ice sets in. The duration of its stay in Scotland is uncertain, and a second ferry, the SPIRIT OF TASMANIA V, will remain in Finland for now. Both ferries, already delayed, are not expected to enter full service in Tasmania until 2027.
Speculation suggests that TT-Line, the ferry’s owner, might lease or charter SPIRIT OF TASMANIA IV during the delay in Tasmania, pending the completion of berth construction in Devonport. This was suggested by Tasmania’s premier, Jeremy Rockliff.
SPIRIT OF TASMANIA IV has been built by Rauma Marine Constructions Oy and handed over to the owners in September. The second vessel will be ready in 2025.
Photo: Spirit of Tasmania
