Tasmania’s new Spirit of Tasmania ferries will offer a range of pet-friendly amenities, allowing passengers to either share cabins with their pets or use climate-controlled kennels starting next year.
Each of the two new ferries will have 18 specially designed cabins for pets, with the option for cats and dogs to stay with their owners during the Bass Strait crossing. Passengers can also opt for climate-controlled kennels equipped with advanced technology to ensure the safety and comfort of their pets.
TT-Line CEO Bernard Dwyer stated that these upgrades are in response to passenger feedback, acknowledging the importance of pets in many families. “We understand that pets are valued members of the family,” Dwyer said. “Our new ships will cater to various types of pets and provide more options for their owners.”
The pet-friendly cabins will include designated outdoor areas for pets to relieve themselves on a leash. The kennels, located in a restricted section separate from the vehicle decks, will feature smart technology and CCTV to ensure only authorized access by crew and pet owners.
However, there are limitations: pets in cabins will not be allowed in general passenger areas, and those in kennels must remain there for the duration of the 12-hour journey. Owners are also required to bring their pet’s bedding.
TT-Line has not yet finalized pricing for these cabins but indicated that no major changes to the pricing strategy are anticipated. This marks a significant shift from the current policy, where pet owners are not permitted to visit their pets in existing kennels due to safety reasons.
The new ferries, under construction in Finland, are expected to be operational by 2025. They aim to address past concerns about pet safety on board, highlighted by incidents such as a missing dog in 2021 and the death of a South African mastiff in 2019.
RSPCA Tasmania’s Chief Executive Andrea Dawkins praised the new facilities, describing them as a “fantastic” improvement for both animal and human wellbeing. She noted that the updated kennels address previous safety concerns and are a significant enhancement over leaving pets in vehicles.
Despite some delays and issues with construction and port infrastructure, the Spirit of Tasmania IV and V are on track to commence service between Geelong and Devonport in 2025.
