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Guide to travelling on Spirit of Tasmania
Your guide to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, including departure points, onboard facilities and what to expect during the journey.
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 is particularly momentous for Spirit of Tasmania, with two new ships commencing passenger services on 31 October 2026. The new vessels, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V, will feature modern facilities and increased capacity, with each able to carry up to 1,800 passengers and offering 301 cabins.
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 and Flexi passenger fares.*
Guide to travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania
A major advantage of travelling on Spirit of Tasmania is the freedom to bring your car or caravan along for the journey. All images courtesy of Spirit of Tasmania
Getting to and from Spirit of Tasmania
Where does Spirit of Tasmania sail?
Spirit of Tasmania ferries travel between Devonport in Tasmania and Geelong in Victoria. You can board the ferry at either port, and both one-way and return fares are available.
Why did the Spirit of Tasmania terminal move from Melbourne to Geelong?
The new Spirit of Tasmania Quay terminal in Geelong features easy vehicle access, with dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones and ample undercover parking. If you arrive before check-in, you can enjoy the boardwalk overlooking Corio Quay or relax in the 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 from Melbourne to the Spirit of Tasmania terminal in Geelong
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 V/Line train to North Shore station, about 1.4km from the terminal, or North Geelong station, about 2km away. Arrange onward transport by taxi or rideshare from the station to Spirit of Tasmania Quay before you travel.
Depending on what time you board, you may get the chance to watch the sun set.
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.
Fares vary by sailing, season, demand and the travel options selected.
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, with daytime sailings available on selected dates during periods of higher demand. Check the current sailing schedule before booking.
How long does the Spirit of Tasmania journey take?
Sailing between Victoria and Tasmania on Spirit of Tasmania takes between 9.5 to 11.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.
Family cabins are available on Spirit of Tasmania, with cots supplied subject to availability.
Accommodation on Spirit of Tasmania
What types of rooms are available on Spirit of Tasmania?
Accommodation options are varied to suit all budgets and include inside, porthole, deluxe and family cabins, both standard and business recliners, as well as pet-friendly cabins.
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.
Pet-friendly cabins are available to book, so your dog can travel with you in comfort.
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 travelling with a pet should select the appropriate accommodation when booking. From 31 October 2026, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V will each offer 18 pet-friendly cabins for dogs and cats and 45 climate-controlled kennels.
Spirit of Tasmania advises against keeping pets inside vehicles or trailers during the voyage due to animal welfare concerns. If you choose this option, you’ll need to sign an indemnity and release form before travelling. You will not be permitted to check on your pet during the voyage. Request the form from the Spirit of Tasmania customer contact centre on 1800 634 906. The completed form should be returned at least 72 hours prior to sailing.
Accredited assistance animals are legally permitted to stay with their handlers throughout the journey.
Catch a movie at the onboard cinema while sailing on Spirit of Tasmania.
Preparing for travel on Spirit of Tasmania
When should I check in for my Spirit of Tasmania trip?
Check-in generally opens between 1.5 and 2.5 hours before departure; confirm the time shown on your e-ticket. 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 times vary, so follow the instructions on your e-ticket and at the terminal. If you’re travelling with a vehicle, allow extra time for check-in and boarding.
What can I take on Spirit of Tasmania?
If you're travelling without a vehicle, check the baggage allowance and size limits shown for your sailing before packing. Keep medication, identification and other essentials in the bag you take to the passenger decks.
If you're travelling with a vehicle, declare its full dimensions and any roof racks, trailers or accessories when booking. Vehicle requirements vary by type, so check the official conditions for your booking.
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.
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.
How can I prevent seasickness on Spirit of Tasmania?
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.
Choose from a range of dining options aboard Spirit of Tasmania.
What to do on Spirit of Tasmania
What can I eat and drink on Spirit of Tasmania?
There are plenty of food and beverage options on Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V , including Mersey Café, Cradle Lounge, and the Bass Strait General Store.
What entertainment is on Spirit of Tasmania?
Entertainment and leisure facilities include cinemas, an entertainment zone, and kids' play equipment, as well as the 'Tassie Showcases' in the Huon Lounge.
What toilet facilities are on Spirit of Tasmania?
Public toilets, accessible toilets and baby-change facilities are available on board. Booked cabins also include private bathroom facilities. Locations vary by vessel.
Is there Wi-Fi on Spirit of Tasmania?
Wi-Fi is available to purchase in public areas but is not available in cabins. Speeds may be slower than on land because the service is delivered to the ship via satellite.
Children can enjoy a dedicated play space while travelling aboard Spirit of Tasmania.
Taking vehicles on Spirit of Tasmania
Can you take your car on Spirit of Tasmania?
One of the biggest benefits of travelling on Spirit of Tasmania is the ability to bring your own vehicle, removing the need to hire one at your destination. Vehicle availability and booking conditions vary, so enter the details of every vehicle, trailer or caravan accurately when booking.
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 on 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 have increased capacity for these types of vehicles.
Can you take an electric vehicle on Spirit 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 a popular destination in Tasmania.
Once you arrive in Tasmania
When does Spirit of Tasmania arrive in Devonport?
Arrival times vary by sailing date, direction, vessel and operating conditions. Check your booking and the current sailing schedule for the planned arrival time, and allow for possible weather-related changes.
How do you 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 is there to see and 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 nearby kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Hobart also serves as the departure point for tours to places like Bruny Island and Tasman Island. Plus, RACV Members save when staying at RACV Hobart Hotel as well as on car and campervan hire.
RACV Members save on major Tasmanian attractions and tours
*Terms and conditions apply. Offer applies to new bookings only. RACV Members must book these fares direct with Spirit of Tasmania by using this page. 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.
