The Spirit of Tasmania Ferry - An Unexpected Maritime Gem
Spirit of Tasmania I and II—veteran fast cruise ferries.
There’s something delightfully unpretentious about the Spirit of Tasmania that modern cruise lines seem to have forgotten. Perhaps it’s the absence of rock-climbing walls and surf simulators, or maybe it’s the genuine Tasmanian hospitality that permeates every deck. Whatever the magic ingredient, this overnight ferry crossing proves that sometimes the journey truly can rival the destination.
The TT-Line operates two identical vessels—Spirit of Tasmania I and II—veteran fast cruise ferries that have been faithfully plying the Bass Strait for nearly three decades. At 194 metres in length with a 25-metre beam, these ships tip the scales at approximately 29,340 tonnes and maintain a respectable cruising speed of 30 knots. The specifications tell only part of the story: each vessel accommodates up to 1,400 passengers, 500 cars, and 110 trucks, making this as much a vital transport link as a leisure experience.
A Cabin Above Expectations
The accommodation aboard Spirit of Tasmania I comprises 222 cabins with 750 beds total. The cabin categories range from 59 twin-bed rooms with portholes and 72 four-bed porthole cabins to 81 four-bed inside staterooms and eight deluxe cabins with windows. We opted for a deluxe cabin, and frankly, it exceeded expectations considerably.
Upon arrival, we discovered a complimentary bottle of wine awaiting us—a thoughtful touch that immediately set the tone. The deluxe accommodations feature two large windows, smart HDTV with satellite reception and Foxtel interactive programming, comfortable armchairs, and bathrobes. All cabins come with air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and a full complement of linens, towels, and toiletries. The overall layout genuinely rivals what you’d find on purpose-built cruise ships costing considerably more.
The Practicalities Matter
Here’s where seasoned travellers need to pay attention: the Spirit of Tasmania no longer departs from Melbourne proper but from Geelong, a 70-kilometre journey that can catch the unprepared off guard. Allow ample time for this transfer, particularly during peak periods.
The ships operate around 800 sailings annually, with overnight services running year-round and daytime sailings available between September and April. The Bass Strait crossing takes between nine and a half to eleven and a half hours, depending on weather conditions. Yes, these waters have earned their reputation for being somewhat temperamental, but the vessels are well-stabilised and designed specifically for these conditions.
Check-in opens two and a half hours before departure, with boarding commencing ninety minutes prior to sailing—civilised timing that allows for a relaxed embarkation.
Dining and Entertainment Beyond Ferry Standards
The culinary offerings genuinely surprised us. The Tasmanian Market Kitchen serves proper breakfast, lunch, and dinner during set hours (children under five eat complimentary), whilst The Pantry provides grab-and-go options alongside souvenirs and a selection of Tasmanian wines.
Three bars serve the ship: the Top Deck Lounge and Terrace Lounge Bar offer wines, beers, and ciders alongside toasted Turkish rolls, sandwiches, and pizzas. Bar Seven elevates the experience with its stylish bar-lounge atmosphere, large televisions, live entertainment, and comprehensive beverage selection.
Entertainment extends to two 48-seat cinema lounges showing newly released and popular films with multiple screenings per voyage. Live music performances by Tasmanian artists add authentic local flavour. Wi-Fi is available for a modest charge, and there are even ATMs aboard for those requiring additional cash.
The Bass Strait Experience
Despite being merely an overnight sailing, the experience felt considerably more substantial than our twelve hours aboard would suggest. There’s an unhurried quality to the journey that modern life rarely provides—time to actually enjoy a meal without rushing, to watch a film without distraction, to simply observe the ever-changing seascape.
The ships may be approaching their replacement date next year, but their age brings character rather than compromise. The crew’s genuine pride in their vessel and route is palpable, creating an atmosphere more akin to a boutique hotel than utilitarian transport.
The Seasoned Traveller’s Verdict
If your itinerary includes Tasmania, the Spirit of Tasmania should be considered essential rather than optional. This represents excellent value for money—providing accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transport in a single package. The deluxe cabins, in particular, offer genuine comfort and unexpected touches that demonstrate attention to passenger experience.
Yes, these are working ferries rather than purpose-built cruise ships, but that’s precisely their charm. The Spirit of Tasmania delivers an authentic, unpretentious maritime experience that many modern cruise lines have lost in their pursuit of floating theme parks. For discerning travellers seeking substance over spectacle, this overnight journey across the Bass Strait proves that sometimes the most rewarding voyages come in the most unexpected packages.
