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Guide to travelling on Spirit of Tasmania
Here's everything to know about the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, from where it departs to what you can do on board.
Spirit of Tasmania transfers thousands of holidaymakers between Tasmania and mainland Australia each year and is one of Australia’s most famous travel experiences.
This year will be particularly momentous for Spirit of Tasmania, with two new ships launching from late October 2026. These new vessels will be named Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V and feature a raft of modern features and enhanced capacity, each able to hold 1,800 passengers and more than 4,000m of lanes for vehicles.
If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania, read about this iconic red and white ferry so that you’re fully prepared. Best of all, RACV Members can save 10 per cent off Spirit of Tasmania passenger fares.*
Guide to travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania
Being able to take your own vehicle - or caravan - onboard Spirit of Tasmania is one of the biggest perks of travelling by ship. Image: Sean Scott Photography
Getting to and from Spirit of Tasmania
Where does Spirit of Tasmania travel?
Spirit of Tasmania ferries travel between Devonport in Tasmania and Geelong in Victoria. You can depart the ferry from either port and both one-way and return fares are available.
Why did Spirit of Tasmania move to Geelong?
The new Spirit of Tasmania Quay terminal in Geelong features easy vehicle access, with dedicated drop off/pick up zones and ample undercover parking. If you arrive before check in, you can enjoy the boardwalk looking over Corio Quay or relax in the comfortable lounge areas with free-Wi-Fi and a drink from the café.
Up until late 2022, Spirit of Tasmania's Victorian berth was located in Port Melbourne.
How to get to Spirit of Tasmania from Melbourne
The Geelong Spirit of Tasmania Quay is located at 136 Corio Quay Road, North Geelong.
By car: It is approximately 70km to drive from Melbourne to the Spirit of Tasmania Quay in North Geelong. Allow at least an hour to drive there, making sure you leave enough time to check-in.
By train: Take a VLine train to either North Geelong or Geelong station. A shuttle bus is available to the quay from Geelong station. Fees and a minimum passenger requirement applies. The shuttle bus also runs transfers between the quay and Avalon Airport, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast.
Vehicles, including EVs, motorcycles, caravans and motorhomes can board the Spirit of Tasmania.
Spirit of Tasmania prices and booking info
How much does it cost to travel on Spirit of Tasmania?
There are a range of ticket options available for Spirit of Tasmania.
Prices depend on whether you're travelling at day or night, the seasonal popularity, what you are travelling with (for example, a car, motorhome, campervan, motorbike, bicycle, pet), and whether you're booking a cabin or a recliner.
As of April 2026, fares start at around $100 per person each way for an adult travelling with no vehicle.
RACV Members can save 10 per cent off Spirit of Tasmania passenger fares when booking through RACV.*
How often does Spirit of Tasmania run?
Spirit of Tasmania offers overnight sailings throughout the year. Daytime sailings run only between September and April. In total, there are around 800 sailings made by Spirit of Tasmania's two vessels every year.
Is it better to sail during the day or at night?
Spirit of Tasmania offers day and night sailings, with both having their own benefits. Which is best is ultimately a decision for you.
Pros of daytime trips
- Better views of Bass Strait.
- More time to enjoy onboard amenities.
- No need to pay for accommodation if you don't want it.
Cons of daytime trips
- Only available during periods of high demand.
Pros of nighttime trips
- You can opt to sleep through most of the travel time.
- Seasickness can be helped by sleeping.
- Recliner seats are free to book for night sailings (they incur a fee for daytime bookings).
Cons of nighttime trips
- Not much of a view.
- Less time to enjoy onboard facilities.
- Families travelling with infants will need to book accommodation - infants are not permitted in recliner seats.
How long does the journey onboard Spirit of Tasmania take?
Sailing between Victoria and Tasmania on Spirit of Tasmania takes between 9.5 to 11.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.
The Spirit of Tasmania service has been running between Victoria and Tasmania since 1985.
Spirit of Tasmania accommodation
What types of rooms are avilable on Spirit of Tasmania?
You're welcome to sleep on your Spirit of Tasmania journey, with cabins available for both day and night journeys. Rooms available include:
- Inside cabins (sleeps four)
- Porthole cabins (two- or four-bed options)
- Deluxe cabins (queen bed, sleeps two)
All cabins include a private bathroom, desk, space for hanging clothes and adjustable air conditioning. The deluxe cabin additionally features a television, fridge, bathrobes and an amenities pack.
A wakeup call is provided to all passengers 45 minutes before the scheduled disembarking time on the overnight ferry.
Does Spirit of Tasmania supply cots for babies?
Passengers travelling with infants can book a complimentary cot when travelling on Spirit of Tasmania. It's recommended that passengers requiring a cot opt for a four-bed or deluxe cabin.
Cots are supplied subject to availability and you will need to bring your own linen for the them.
Infants cannot travel in recliner seats.
Can I bring my dog or cat with me on Spirit of Tasmania?
Yes, you can bring dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and some birds, chickens and ducks on board Spirit of Tasmania. Other animals are generally not allowed on board due to Tasmanian biosecurity laws. Tasmania also has additional requirements for those bringing a dog into the state - visit the Biosecurity Tasmania website for more information.
Passengers wishing to travel with their pet, must book a pet kennel for their pet or a pet-friendly cabin. Pets will be housed in kennels on ventilated decks, with fresh water and regular staff checks throughout the sailing. You will not be able to access the kennels during sailing, but you can leave bedding and comfort items with your pet.
Accredited assistance animals are legally permitted to stay with their handlers throughout the journey.
The new Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V ships, scheduled to commence sailings from 31 October 2026, will offer enhanced pet-friendly facilities, including 18 pet-friendly cabins on each ship, allowing passengers to travel with their animals. Each vessel will also feature a secure, climate-controlled kennel area.
A choice of cabins are available to passengers for overnight sailings.
Preparing for travel
When should I check in for my Spirit of Tasmania trip?
You can check in for your Spirit of Tasmania ferry 2.5 hours prior to departure. Bring your driver's licence or passport, as photo ID is required at check-in.
Check-in closes 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time, so be sure to arrive early. If you have additional requirements, allow at least two hours.
Boarding begins 1.5 hours before departure, giving you time to settle into your cabin or a lounge before setting sail. If you’re travelling with a car, allow extra time for check-in, as queues and wait times can be lengthy — stay calm, turn on the radio, put on an audiobook or try a guessing game to keep the kids entertained.
What can I bring onboard Spirit of Tasmania?
If you are a passenger travelling without a vehicle, you can check in two carry-on bags or suitcases and take one of them on the passenger decks with you.
If you're a passenger travelling with a vehicle, you can load up your vehicle with no weight restrictions. The standard height limit is 2.1m for most vehicles. "High vehicle" booking is required for 4WDs with roof racks, campers, and vans exceeding 2.1m.
Once parked onboard, you can take one carry-on bag or suitcase to the passenger decks. You won’t be able to return to your vehicle, so make sure to take any medications and necessities with you.
The accepted carry-on baggage dimensions are 66cm x 46.5cm x 27.5cm or smaller. No weight restrictions apply.
Please note that you cannot bring anything that contravenes Tasmanian biosecurity laws. Fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, plants, honeycomb and soil are some of the items that can’t be brought into Tasmania.
Is Spirit of Tasmania a rough journey?
Bass Strait is well known for its choppy conditions. Each journey on Spirit of Tasmania is different: some crossings will be smooth, while others can be quite rough and juddering. In the event of a storm, Spirit of Tasmania ships are designed to handle rough weather.
Can I go on Spirit of Tasmania if I get seasick?
If you're prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to take motion sickness tablets before the journey as per the packet instructions.
You can help prevent seasickness by:
- getting fresh air and looking at the horizon
- sipping cool water and nibbling plain, salty snacks
- sleeping or resting
- using ginger - dry ginger ale or gingernut biscuits can be helpful.
These preventative measures can also be helpful if symptoms begin mid-journey. Spirit of Tasmania also has a medical attendant onboard should you need extra assistance.
Day sailings are available during peak season, with entertainment on board. Image: Jess Bonde.
What to do on board
Are dining and drinks available onboard Spirit of Tasmania?
There’s plenty of food and beverage options onboard Spirit of Tasmania.
Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on board at Tasmanian Market Kitchen (TMK), with kids under five eating for free. Be sure to turn up at the set meal times, which are listed online. If you’re only feeling peckish, The Pantry offers grab-and-go snacks and sandwiches along with Tasmanian wines and souvenirs.
There are also three bars on board serving Tassie wines, beers and ciders. You can select from the intimate and modern Bar 7, the summery The Terrace Lounge Bar, and the deck chair-strewn Top Deck Lounge. Toasted Turkish rolls or sandwiches and pizzas are available at The Terrace Lounge Bar and Top Deck Lounge.
What entertainment options are onboard Spirit of Tasmania?
There’s plenty to do onboard Spirit of Tasmania. Catch newly released and popular films at one of two on-board cinemas for low prices, bop along to live music sessions performed by Tasmanian artists or stow away in the Reading Room for some quiet time with your book, magazine or laptop. In the Tourism Hub, passengers can browse tours, activities and attractions on offer around Tasmania and pick up any necessary National Park Passes or fishing licences.
Children will enjoy the Game Zone or Kids Play Area, with extra family entertainment like face painting, roaming circus performers and art carts available during school holidays from December to April.
What are the toilet facilities like onboard Spirit of Tasmania?
There are toilet facilities on Deck 7, 9 and 10 of Spirit of Tasmania. Baby change facilities and accessible toilets are also available. There are also toilets in booked cabins.
Is there Wi-Fi on Spirit of Tasmania?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available for a small charge on Deck 7, Deck 8 (the Recliner Lounge), Deck 9 and Deck 10. Wi-Fi is not available in cabins. Expect slower speeds than on land, as Wi-Fi is delivered to the ship via satellite.
Take time to relax at one of Spirit of Tasmania's onboard bars or grab something to eat from the Tasmanian Market Kitchen.
Taking vehicles on Spirit of Tasmania
Can you bring your car on Spirit of Tasmania?
One of the biggest benefits to travelling on Spirit of Tasmania is the ability for travellers to bring their own vehicle, removing the need to hire one at their destination. A maximum of 14 vehicles can be taken per booking, provided there is at least one passenger per vehicle.
It's a good idea to have a full tank or fully charged EV when boarding as service stations can be few and far between in some parts of Tasmania.
Can you store luggage in your car?
You're welcome to store luggage in your vehicle when travelling on Spirit of Tasmania.
However, passengers cannot access the vehicle deck for the duration of the journey, so don't store anything in your car that you expect you'll need during the trip.
Can you take a caravan onboard Spirit of Tasmania?
Yes, caravans and motorhomes are permitted on Spirit of Tasmania. Trailered boats are also accepted. The new ships, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V are expected to have increased capacity for these types of vehicles.
Can I take my electric vehicle onboardSpirit of Tasmania?
EVs are welcome on Spirit of Tasmania, however you are not allowed to charge your vehicle while on board. Ensure your EV has enough charge for disembarkation prior to boarding. Visit the Spirit of Tasmania website for further details on EVs.
Are e-bikes and e-scooters allowed on Spirit of Tasmania?
Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) such as e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as aids like mobility scooters and motorised wheelchairs, can be brought on board Spirit of Tasmania.
You must declare if you're bringing any such device when booking your ticket.
Hobart, including the spectacular kunanyi/Mount Wellington, is an easy drive from the Spirit of Tasmania berth in Devonport.
Once you arrive
When does Spirit of Tasmania arrive in Devonport?
Arrival times can be impacted by weather conditions. As a general guide,
- day sailings arrive 7pm
- evening sailings (departing 6.45pm) arrive 6am
- late night sailings (departing 10pm) arrive 8.30am.
How to disembark Spirit of Tasmania with a vehicle
On arrival, listen to announcements. Passengers are called to their vehicle by their deck number and it's important to make your way to your vehicle as soon as you're called (as being late may delay other drivers from disembarking). Don't turn on your engine until instructed to do so.
What to do in Tasmania
Once you’ve disembarked the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport, there’s plenty to see and do. Explore the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, ride the heritage Don River Railway, or watch Little Penguins come ashore after dark at Lillico Beach.
From Devonport it's not far to Tasmania's wild west coast, a must-visit for intrepid travellers. Explore the area by train on the Lynchford Express or go on a Gordon River cruise to see the pristine wilderness by boat.
Hobart is a great base to explore the rest of Tasmania: it’s home to the famous MONA art gallery, Salamanca Market and the nearby kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Hobart also serves as the departure point for tours to sites like Bruny Island and Tasman Island. Plus, RACV Members save when staying at RACV Hobart Hotel as well as on car and campervan hire.
*Offer applies to new bookings only. RACV Members must book these fares direct with Spirit of Tasmania by using this page, or via the RACV Holiday Line or RACV Travel Agency. Discount excludes Deluxe Cabins and vehicle fares. To qualify for this discount you must be a current RACV member. Members of Auto Clubs other than RACV are not eligible. A valid RACV membership card must be presented at the time of check in. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with another special offer or Red Hot Deal. $10 booking fee applies per person each way when booking via the Customer Contact Centre and Terminal Service Desk.
