The Complete Guide to the Spirit of Tasmania: Everything You Need to Know for 2026 and Beyond
Your comprehensive resource for crossing Bass Strait—from booking to boarding, caravans to cabins, and everything in between
Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned Tassie regular, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Spirit of Tasmania ferry service. We focus particularly on the exciting transition to the new Spirit of Tasmania IV and V vessels, which begin service from the end of October 2026.
Last updated: February 2026. This page will be updated as new information becomes available, including the full feature reveal expected by May 2026.
Since you are planning a visit to Tasmania, you may be interested in itineraries that cover the island. If so, we have everything you need on the Tasmania Road Trips page.
Spirit of Tasmania at a Glance
New to the Spirit? Here are the key basics:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where does it go? | Geelong (Victoria) to Devonport (Tasmania) and return. |
| How long does it take? | Approximately 9–10 hours. |
| Can I bring my car? | Yes—cars, campervans, caravans, motorhomes, motorcycles, and EVs are all welcome. |
| Can I bring my dog or cat? | Yes—dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and some birds can travel in onboard kennels (pet cabins coming soon). |
| Do I need a cabin? | No—recliner seats are included free on night crossings, but private cabins are recommended for overnight sailings. |
| Is there food onboard? | Yes—restaurants, bars, and grab-and-go options featuring Tasmanian produce. |
| How far in advance can I book? | Up to 11 months ahead via the rolling booking window. |
The October 2026 Milestone: Old Fleet vs. New Fleet
This is the most significant change to Bass Strait travel in over two decades:
| Before 31 October 2026 | From 31 October 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Vessels | Spirit of Tasmania I & II | Spirit of Tasmania IV & V (new fleet) |
| Departure Port (VIC) | Spirit of Tasmania Quay, Geelong | Spirit of Tasmania Quay, Geelong |
| Arrival Port (TAS) | East Devonport terminal | New Terminal 3, Berth 3, East Devonport |
| Passenger Capacity | ~1,400 per sailing | 1,800 per sailing |
| Vehicle Capacity | 2,565 lane metres | 4,098 lane metres |
The New Ships: Spirit of Tasmania IV & V Features
Summer 2026/27 marks the inaugural season for the new fleet. Here’s what the Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V bring to Bass Strait:
| Feature | Detail | Benefit for Travellers |
|---|---|---|
| Increased Capacity | 1,800 passengers per sailing | Easier to secure bookings during peak periods |
| Larger Hull | 212 metres in length | Enhanced stability for a smoother Bass Strait crossing |
| Greater Vehicle Space | 4,098 lane metres | More room for caravans, motorhomes, and oversized vehicles |
| Dual-Fuel LNG Engines | Liquefied natural gas capability | Reduced emissions and improved environmental performance |
| Modern Stabilisers | Advanced stabilisation systems | Less motion, more comfort—especially in rough weather |
| Upgraded Facilities | New cabins, dining venues and entertainment | A more comfortable and enjoyable journey |
What the increased capacity means for you: Summer bookings are slightly more accessible than in previous years. That said, school holiday periods still fill quickly—early planning remains essential.
Summer 2026/27: Schedule, Pricing & Booking Windows
Planning a Tasmanian adventure for the new fleet’s first summer season? Here’s what you need to know.
The Schedule: Evening Departures Only
For Summer 2026/27, the Spirit of Tasmania operates a fixed evening schedule:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Departure Point (Victoria) | Spirit of Tasmania Quay, Geelong |
| Arrival Point (Tasmania) | Terminal 3, Berth 3, East Devonport |
| Departure Time | 18:45 (both directions) |
| Crossing Duration | Approximately 9–10 hours |
Important: No daytime or late-night sailings are scheduled. The 18:45 departure is the new standard for the new fleet. Every crossing departs early evening, arriving the following morning. Plan your driving day accordingly.
Example Pricing for Large Vehicles: January 2027
Here’s real-world pricing for a typical family or couple travelling with a car and caravan (or large motorhome). This pricing was checked in February 2026. Use this as a benchmark when planning your budget:
Base Fares (2 Adults + 11.5m Vehicle – price will increase with increased length)
| Fare Type | Price (each way) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spirit Fare | $1,180 | Non-refundable; change fees apply |
| Flex Fare | $1,264 | Full flexibility for changes and cancellations |
Accommodation Add-ons (per crossing)
| Accommodation Type | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Recliner Seats | Free (included) | Budget-conscious travellers; light sleepers |
| Inside Cabin | $215 | Private space, proper bed, ensuite—excellent value |
| Porthole Cabin | $240 | Natural light and sea views |
| Deluxe Cabin | $599 | Premium experience; larger space, enhanced amenities |
Prices shown are indicative based on January 2027 bookings. Actual fares may vary by date and availability.
Booking Now vs. Waiting: The May 2026 Factor
Spirit of Tasmania operates an 11-month rolling booking window, meaning you can secure your Summer 2026/27 crossing right now. However, there’s an important caveat:
Full details of new ship features and premium facilities are under embargo until May 2026.
What this means in practice:
- Book now: Core crossings (fare type, vehicle, standard cabins) are available immediately
- Wait for May 2026: Specific new features—such as Pet Cabins, Business Lounges, and other premium add-ons—may only become bookable after the full feature release
- The smart move: Secure your preferred dates and cabin type early (peak periods book out fast), then check back after May 2026 to add newly available features to your existing booking
Pet Cabin tip: The new ships feature just 18 pet-friendly cabins per vessel—a game-changer for travelling with your dog or cat —but they will sell out first. If sailing with your pet in-cabin is a priority, be ready to book the moment these become available.
Taking a Caravan to Tasmania: Why Flex Is the Smart Choice
Travelling with a caravan, camper trailer, or motorhome? This comparison is for you.
The price difference between Spirit and Flex fares is just $84. For a booking worth over $1,100, that’s a modest premium for complete peace of mind.
The $84 Question: Spirit vs. Flex
| Spirit Fare ($1,180) | Flex Fare ($1,264) | |
|---|---|---|
| Change dates | Fees apply | Free changes |
| Cancel booking | Non-refundable | Full refund available |
| Adjust sailing time | Fees apply | No penalty |
| Peace of mind | Limited | Complete flexibility |
Why Flex often makes sense for caravanners:
- Travel dates might shift due to weather, mechanical issues, or itinerary changes.
- You’re new to towing and want flexibility as you finalise your plans.
- You’re booking many months in advance, when circumstances could change.
- You want the option to grab a better sailing slot if one opens up.
The verdict: For an investment of this size, $84 buys insurance against life’s curveballs. Most experienced caravanners consider it money well spent.
Vehicle measurement reminder: Your fare is based on the total combined length. Measure accurately before booking—incorrect measurements at check-in may result in additional charges or denied boarding.
Our Experience: On our first visit, we lost two and a half weeks due to having to return to Perth for a family emergency. We requested a date change to extend our stay. We were put on a wait list, but could not change the date. Hopefully, the extra space on the new ferries will improve this situation. The upside is that the following summer we used it as an excuse to return for nine and a half weeks.
The Night Crossing Experience: Your Hotel on the Water
With all summer sailings departing at 18:45, the Spirit of Tasmania effectively becomes your floating hotel for the night. You’ll board in the early evening, enjoy dinner and the ship’s facilities, sleep as you cross Bass Strait, and wake up in Tasmania (or Victoria) ready to start your day.
Inside Cabin vs. Deluxe: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
For a 9–10 hour overnight crossing, here’s the honest comparison:
The Inside Cabin ($215) provides everything most travellers need: a private room, comfortable beds, your own ensuite, and a quiet space away from public areas. You board, settle in, sleep well, and wake refreshed. For the practical traveller, this represents outstanding value.
The Deluxe Cabin ($599) is about the experience as much as it is about the sleep. Expect a larger room, enhanced furnishings, and premium touches throughout. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, prefer extra space, or simply want to start your Tasmanian holiday in style, the Deluxe delivers.
The verdict: For most travellers focused on a good night’s sleep before a big driving day, the Inside Cabin hits the sweet spot. The Deluxe is a treat rather than a necessity—lovely if the budget allows, but you won’t feel short-changed in a standard cabin.
Onboard Dining, Bars & Entertainment
The Spirit of Tasmania is designed to make your crossing enjoyable, not just functional.
Where to Eat
| Venue | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Tasmanian Market Kitchen (TMK) | Main restaurant on Deck 7. Self-service dining featuring Tasmanian produce—hot meals, pasta, seafood, salads, vegetarian options. Kids under 5 eat free. |
| The Pantry | Grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, pastries, snacks, drinks, and specialty Tasmanian products. |
Where to Drink
| Venue | Vibe |
|---|---|
| Bar 7 | Contemporary bar with Tasmanian wines, craft beers, boutique ciders, and local spirits. |
| The Terrace Lounge Bar | Bright, open space with lounge seating, Bass Strait views, and scheduled live entertainment. |
| Top Deck Lounge | Family-friendly with a summery feel—deck chairs and panoramic windows. |
Entertainment & Facilities
- Cinemas — Two onboard cinemas showing newly released and popular films
- Game Zone — Arcade-style gaming machines
- Kids’ Play Area — Beach-themed play space; extras like face painting during school holidays
- Reading Room — Quiet space for books, magazines, or laptops
- Tourism Hub — Maps, brochures, guidebooks, and National Parks Passes available for purchase
- Wi-Fi — Available in public areas (not cabins) for a small charge
Quick Reference: Summer 2026/27 Booking Checklist
- Book early — School holiday periods fill fast, even with increased capacity.
- Measure your vehicle — Know your total length (vehicle plus trailer/caravan) before booking.
- Consider Flex — For just $84 more on a caravan setup, you gain complete flexibility.
- Choose your cabin — An Inside Cabin offers excellent value; Deluxe is a premium treat.
- Plan for 18:45 — All sailings depart early evening; no daytime options this summer.
- Watch for May 2026 — New features (including Pet Cabins) will be revealed and bookable.
Your Sailing Day: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
You’ve booked your crossing—now here’s exactly what happens from the moment you arrive at the terminal until you’re settled onboard. This step-by-step guide applies to all sailings on the new Spirit of Tasmania IV and V from November 2026 onwards.
Timing Your Arrival
| Milestone | Time Before Departure | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal Opens | 2.5 hours | Vehicle access to Spirit of Tasmania Quay becomes available |
| Check-in Opens | 2.5 hours | You can begin the check-in and security process |
| Boarding Begins | 1.5 hours | Vehicles start driving onto the ship |
| Check-in Closes | 45 minutes | Strict cut-off—late arrivals may be refused boarding and forfeit their fare |
Our recommendation: Aim to arrive around 2 hours before the 18:45 departure (approximately 16:45). This gives you plenty of buffer without an excessive wait. If you have accessibility needs, allow at least 2 hours and advise staff at check-in.
The Check-in Process
Once you enter the terminal grounds in your vehicle:
- Proceed to the check-in booth — Have your e-ticket ready (printed or on your phone) along with photo ID (driver’s licence or passport). Staff will verify your booking and vehicle registration.
- Receive your boarding pass — This doubles as your cabin key card. Keep it handy throughout the voyage.
- Pet travellers: If you’ve booked a kennel, you’ll receive a yellow tag with instructions.
Biosecurity & Quarantine Inspection
Tasmania takes biosecurity seriously—it’s why the island remains free from many pests and diseases found on the mainland. After check-in, all vehicles proceed through inspection.
What inspectors will check:
- Inside your vehicle (boot, cabin, storage areas)
- Under the bonnet
- Eskies and fridges
- Boats, fishing gear, and camping equipment
- Gas bottle compliance
Items you CANNOT bring into Tasmania:
| Prohibited Items | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Fresh fruit and vegetables (including potatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, fresh herbs) | Consume before boarding or dispose of in terminal bins |
| Certain fresh or frozen fish and seafood | Check the Biosecurity Tasmania restricted fish list |
| Some honey and honeycomb (unless commercially filtered) | Leave at home or dispose (if it is clear it is OK, raw honey is not permitted) |
| Live plants, cuttings, and seeds | Not permitted |
| Firewood and fire lighter blocks | Use it or lose it |
Items you CAN bring: Processed and packaged foods, commercially dried/frozen/canned fruit and vegetables, meat products (Australian origin, for personal consumption), cheese, dairy, nuts, dried goods, and freeze-dried camping meals.
Tip: You can bring food to eat during the crossing—just ensure restricted items are consumed or binned before you disembark in Devonport. Random inspections also occur on arrival. Fines apply for non-compliance.
Travelling with a dog? All dogs must be treated for hydatid tapeworm within 14 days of arrival. Present a signed declaration form and evidence of treatment (vet certificate or pill packet with receipt) at check-in.
Rob’s Tip: If you are travelling with camping gas canisters, make sure the the plastic cap is on them. If they are not security may take them off you.
Waiting for Boarding
After clearing security and quarantine, you’ll join the vehicle queue. Expect a wait of up to an hour, depending on your arrival time. Toilets are available near the waiting area. If you leave your vehicle, a PA message will inform you that boarding is commencing. Stay with your vehicle after this announcement—when your lane is called, you’ll drive directly onto the ship.
Driving Onto the Ship
Wharf crew will direct traffic. Follow their signals and the vehicle in front. You’ll drive into the car deck and park where directed.
Critical tip: Remember where you parked! The vehicle decks are large, and it’s easy to lose your bearings. As you exit through the stairwell door:
- Take a photo of the deck number and door colour
- Note the colour of the door marker
- Grab a deck map flyer from the stairwell if available
Packing Your Overnight Bag
You cannot access your vehicle during the voyage for safety reasons. Before leaving the car deck, grab everything you’ll need:
- Overnight clothing and toiletries
- Medications
- Phone charger and entertainment
- A jacket or jumper (it can get cool on deck)
- Anything for the kids
Cabins include bedding, linen, towels, and soap. If travelling with an infant in a cot-provided cabin, bring your own cot linen.
Once Onboard
Head to Deck 7 (Reception) to get oriented. Your boarding pass is your cabin key. Settle in, explore the ship, enjoy dinner, and get some rest—you’ll receive a wake-up announcement approximately 45 minutes before arrival.
Other Practical Details
- Payments: Cashless only onboard (credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, etc.).
- Alcohol: You cannot bring your own alcohol onto passenger decks. Leave bottles in your vehicle or check them with luggage.
- Mobile phones: Generally work for most of the voyage. On night sailings, you should have phone coverage while you are awake.
- Disembarkation: Happens in stages. Listen for announcements and return to your vehicle when your deck is called. You’ll typically be on dry land within 30 minutes of the process starting.
Ready to Book?
The new Spirit of Tasmania IV and V represent an exciting new chapter for Bass Strait travel. With greater capacity, improved stability, dual-fuel LNG technology, and modern facilities, there’s never been a better time to plan your Tasmanian adventure.
Visit the official Spirit of Tasmania website to check availability, compare fares, and secure your crossing.
Safe travels, and we’ll see you in Tassie!
Note: Information in this guide is current as of February 2026. Spirit of Tasmania schedules, pricing, and features are subject to change. We will update this page as new information becomes available—particularly following the May 2026 full feature release for the new vessels. Always confirm details directly with Spirit of Tasmania before booking.
Spirit of Tasmania: The “Big Rig” Sailing Day Checklist
1. The Morning of Departure
- [ ] Double-Check Measurements: Ensure your total length (front bumper to tail) matches your booking.
- [ ] Weight Distribution: Ensure your caravan is balanced; the ship’s ramps can be steep.
- [ ] Fuel Check: While there is fuel in Devonport, it’s often cheaper to fill up in Geelong before you hit the terminal.
2. Packing Your “Cabin Bag”
Remember: You cannot return to your vehicle once the ship departs.
- [ ] Toiletries & Meds: Everything you need for at least 12 hours.
- [ ] Tech: Phone chargers (and a power board if you have multiple devices).
- [ ] Layers: Even in summer, the Bass Strait breeze on the observation deck is chilly.
- [ ] Documents: Boarding passes (digital or printed) and Photo ID.
3. At the Geelong Terminal
- [ ] Arrive Early: Aim for 2 hours before the 18:45 departure.
- [ ] Biosecurity Ready: Ensure all fresh fruit, vegetables, and unfiltered honey are disposed of.
- [ ] Dog Owners: Have your Hydatid Tapeworm declaration signed and ready for inspection.
- [ ] Gas Bottles: Turn off all cylinders at the valve.
- [ ] Fridge Management: If your fridge runs on gas switch the caravan fridge to OFF. Fridges running on electricity can stay on.
4. On the Vehicle Deck (The “Tetris” Phase)
- [ ] Car Security: * [ ] Handbrake firmly ON.
- [ ] Vehicle in Gear (or Park).
- [ ] Disable Motion Sensors: Turn off your car alarm’s internal sensors to prevent it from screaming across the Strait.
- [ ] The “Memory” Shot: Take a photo of your parking deck colour and stairwell door.
Wrapping Up
The launch of Spirit of Tasmania IV and V marks the most significant upgrade to Bass Strait travel in over two decades. With increased capacity, enhanced stability, and modern dual-fuel LNG technology, the new fleet makes getting to Tasmania more comfortable and accessible than ever—while still delivering that unique “holiday starts here” feeling that the Spirit is known for.
For Summer 2026/27, the key is to plan ahead. Secure your preferred dates and cabin early through the 11-month booking window, keep an eye out for the May 2026 feature release (especially if you’re hoping for one of those 18 pet cabins). The 18:45 evening departure is now the standard, so embrace the overnight crossing—you’ll wake up in Tassie ready to explore.
Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see Cradle Mountain or a regular making your annual pilgrimage south, the new Spirit of Tasmania is ready to take you there. Book with confidence, pack your overnight bag, and get ready for everything the Apple Isle has to offer.
