Spirit of Tasmania vessels to begin berthing trials in Devonport ahead of October launch

Construction of the new berth at Devonport for TT‑Line’s Spirit of Tasmania IV and V vessels is slated for completion next month, two years behind schedule but within the $493 million budget. The first physical berthing trial for Spirit IV is set for 23‑24 August, followed by a trial for Spirit V on 27‑28 September. After individual tests, TT‑Line plans 11 trial sailings between 24‑30 October before the ships begin commercial service on 31 October.

TT‑Line chief executive Chris Carbone said the trials will assess end‑to‑end operations, including vehicle loading, ticketing, freight handling and onboard amenities. Bridge crews, marine pilots and TasPorts staff have completed simulator training, and crew from the older Spirit of Tasmania I and II will transition to the new fleet.