5 December 2014
Planned refurbishments to the Spirit of Tasmania vessels will not only rejuvenate the ships but also create new interest and excitement in visiting Tasmania, Spirit of Tasmania Chairman Mike Grainger said.
Mr Grainger said the onboard experience for passengers would be enhanced and passenger comfort significantly improved once the refurbishments were completed.
“Spirit of Tasmania is obviously very pleased that our business case has been approved by the Tasmanian Government,” he said.
“We have a wonderful opportunity to implement significant improvements to the vessels that will assist the government to increase visitor numbers to Tasmania to 1.5 million people a year by 2020.
“We understand that we have an important role to play in achieving this goal and look forward to not only rolling out the changes but promoting the ‘new’ vessels to our key markets.”
Under the plans, all passenger decks – including cabins – will be re-modelled or refreshed to enhance the on-board passenger experience.
Specifically, recommended refurbishment works include:
- The refurbishment of decks seven and eight to increase passenger comfort and seating capacity.
- Installation of contemporary furniture and fittings across all passenger decks.
- Installation of new floor coverings, wall finishes and new and additional seating on decks nine and 10.
- Renovated bar and new entertainment areas on deck 10.
- Improved air conditioning on decks nine and 10.
- All cabins will be refreshed with new carpet, curtains and upholstery.
Mr Grainger said the refurbishments would be undertaken in winter 2015 in a way that minimised service disruption.
“As a result, both vessels will be available for the 2015/16 peak season that coincides with the 30th anniversary of Spirit of Tasmania’s operations,” he said.
Mr Grainger said the Spirit of Tasmania business case noted that passenger numbers were forecast to increase by 19 per cent by 2023.
“This predicted passenger growth will generate economic benefits for Tasmania of $220 million over the same period,” he said.
Mr Grainger said the business case also stated that Spirit of Tasmania would “…continue to operate its vessels in a manner that maintained its competitive advantage in the freight market.”
“This relates to our ‘last-to-leave, first-to-arrive’ position,” he said.
“The freight capacity on our vessels will not be reduced.”
Contact: Soniya Fernandez
Communications Manager
saf@spiritoftasmania.com.au
