21 August 2024
Spirit of Tasmania has prioritised the comfort and safety of all pets travelling on board its two new ships with exceptional new pet-friendly facilities.
Each new ship Spirit of Tasmania IV and V – will feature 18 pet-friendly cabins available for passengers who wish to have their pets with them in their cabin during the journey.
The ships will also feature a secure pet kennel area, with a range of kennel sizes to accommodate pets of all sizes.
The kennel area – which is separate from the vehicle decks – is only accessible by crew and pet owners during the journey.
New technology will ensure that passengers only have access to unlock their own pet’s kennel keeping all pets safe and secure.
The ships will feature a designated outdoor area where passengers who are travelling with their pet in a cabin can take their pet on lead if required during the journey.
Spirit of Tasmania Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Bernard Dwyer said it was essential to get the experience for pets on board right.
“We know that pets are cherished members of the family,” he said.
“We have observed high demand from passengers wanting to holiday with their pets, as many prefer to keep their furry companions with them instead of leaving them with pet sitters or at boarding kennels close to home.
“We have listened to the feedback from pet owners who want to travel with us and their pets to make sure our new ships cater for all types of pets and provide more options for owners.
“We’re particularly proud of the new kennels.
“The new kennel area will be climate-controlled and have CCTV video surveillance.
“Passengers will also be able to visit their pet during the sailing.
“We’re confident that passengers will be able to relax and enjoy the sailing knowing that their pet is well taken care of in our new kennel area.”
The highly anticipated ships, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V, are due to commence operating on Bass Strait between Geelong and Devonport in 2025.
Bookings for the pet cabins will open when the sailing schedule for the first of the ships, Spirit of Tasmania IV, is finalized.