Spirit of Tasmania
The Spirit of Tasmania ferries sail across Bass Strait between Geelong in Victoria and Devonport, carrying passengers and vehicles. Bringing your own car makes a North West road trip easy. Book early in summer and school holidays. Check current schedules and quarantine rules.
Flights
- Devonport Airport — close to the ferry terminal.
- Burnie Airport (Wynyard) — convenient for Stanley and the Cradle Coast.
- Launceston Airport — more routes; about 2 hours from Cradle Mountain.
Car hire
Car hire is available at the airports and in major towns. Check your rental agreement if you plan to drive unsealed roads such as the Western Explorer.
Biosecurity
Tasmania has strict biosecurity rules. Fresh fruit and vegetables and some other items cannot be brought in. Use the amnesty bins on arrival.
Driving times from Devonport
- Cradle Mountain: about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Burnie: about 45 minutes.
- Stanley: about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Strahan: about 3 hours.
Arriving by ferry with a car
Allow time for disembarking and biosecurity. Plan your first night near Devonport or Cradle Mountain.
Choosing between ferry and flight
The ferry suits longer trips with your own vehicle, bikes or caravan. Flying suits shorter trips; hire a car on arrival. Launceston has the most flight options, Devonport and Burnie the most convenient locations.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Spirit of Tasmania sail from?
Geelong in Victoria, to Devonport in Tasmania.
Which airport is best for Cradle Mountain?
Devonport is closest; Launceston has more flights.
Can I bring my car on the Spirit of Tasmania?
Yes. The ferries carry cars, campervans and caravans.
How long is the Spirit of Tasmania crossing?
The crossing takes most of a day or night; check current schedules.
Is there an airport near Stanley?
Burnie Airport at Wynyard is the closest, about an hour away.
