New Spirit of Tasmania V Arrives in Devonport, Passengers Praise Inaugural Voyage

Spirit of Tasmania V completed its maiden passenger run on Sunday, docking in Devonport at 6:19 am under clear skies and calm seas. The vessel left Geelong about 12 hours earlier, where guests posed for selfies, sipped wine on the pristine deck and listened to a guitarist as dignitaries celebrated the launch. Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff told reporters, "We’ve stayed the course, and we’ve got it done," while Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman called the Spirit brand "iconic" and likened the new ships to the Sydney Opera House. The twin ferries, built by Finnish shipyard Rauma Marine Constructions after a series of delays and cost overruns, were also praised by Finland’s ambassador to Australia, Arto Haapea, who described the event as a historic collaboration. Ferry enthusiast Mitchell Bruce, creator of the Ferries in Tasmania website, recalled growing up on the original Spirit and said the new ships fulfilled a long‑held dream. Passengers shared personal stories: Celeste Ackerly arrived with her child and two dogs, surprised to be on the inaugural crossing; Brian Munday celebrated the end of a three‑and‑a‑half‑month road trip from Queensland; and Sweety Neik from Melbourne set off for her first Tasmanian adventure with plans to visit Cradle Mountain and Salamanca Market. On board, families enjoyed kid‑friendly screens and a range of food options, underscoring the modern amenities of the new vessels. ## Context The Spirit of Tasmania service links mainland Australia with the island state, a route that has long relied on ferry transport for tourists, residents and cargo, making the launch of newer, larger ships a key upgrade for regional connectivity.