The first of two Trans-Tasman newbuilding ropaxes, ’Spirit of Tasmania IV’, is to be laid up in Leith on the River Forth in Scotland for at least two years.
This is being caused by a delay in the construction of her berth at Devonport, Tasmania: The port does not currently have an available berth for the ropax, and the new terminal won’t be ready until 2026/7.
‘Spirit of Tasmania IV’ was delivered by Finnish shipbuilder, Rauma Marine in September, 2024.
Tasmania’s government has discussed the possibility of chartering the vessel out for two years, thus earning revenue until it is needed for its original service, between Geelong, Australia and Devonport, Tasmania.
The cost of building the terminal has reportedly tripled, and the two new ships will cost about 10% more than expected.
Sistership ’Spirit of Tasmania V’ was launched in July and is still being outfitted.
When both ships finally enter service, they will replace two ageing ropaxes, ’Spirit of Tasmania I’ and ’II’.
The two new ropaxes will have a capacity of 4,100 lane-meters and can carry 1,800 pax.
