The first sea trial of the new Spirit of Tasmania IV has been deemed a success, bringing the new ferry one step closer to Tasmanian shores.
The ship, currently under construction at Rauma Marine Constructions in Finland, was put through its paces during a five-day test run.
Spirit of Tasmania CEO Bernard Dwyer said it passed with flying colours, meeting expectations for speed, manoeuvrability and onboard safety systems.
“The ship performed well against every measure and we’re just really excited to see the ship sailing for the first time,” he said.
“Although there is still quite a lot to do before the ship is ready for service, this successful sea trial brings us one step closer to bringing the ship home to Tasmania.”
The sea trial comes amid delays to the new berth at Devonport, which is now not expected to be completed until January 2026 at a cost of approximately $375 million.
Transport Minister Eric Abetz said despite the berth delays, “all going well”, the first new Spirit of Tasmania ferry is still expected to be delivered in the third quarter of 2024.
Opposition Leader Dean Winter slammed the government over the delays and cost blowouts, saying the “scandal” surrounding the new ferries has “deepened”.
“The new Spirit of Tasmania vessels cannot operate out of Devonport without the wharf upgrades,” Winter said.
“Minister for Infrastructure Michael Ferguson says the government will now “provide enhanced oversight of both berthing projects, with TT-Line and TasPorts required to provide full and immediate advice throughout the projects to shareholder Ministers, including any advice relating to the timing, delivery and cost of the vessels.”
“What on earth has he been doing up until now?”