8 reasons to bring your own car for a Tasmanian road trip

Thanks to Spirit of Tasmania’s year-round ferry service between Geelong and Devonport, taking that idyllic road trip around Tasmania has never been easier.

Tasmania seems to be designed for driving holidays. It’s small enough to navigate easily and the ever-changing land and seascapes mean you never get bored of the view. Uncrowded roads wind through deep forests and pretty villages, over mountains and along dramatically varied coastlines.

This picturesque island state offers a multitude of choices for self-drive trips. Whichever route you choose around Tasmania, you’ll find boutique hotels, farm stays and historic properties along the way.

See Tasmania’s dramatic coastline from the water. (Image: Andrew McIntosh)

And sure, you could hire a car when you get there, or you could save money, time and hassle by bringing your own vehicle aboard the iconic Spirit of Tasmania ferries. Conveniently, the ferries travel between Geelong and Devonport, year-round.

In 2024 and 2025 the ferry service will be getting a makeover, with two new ships replacing the current fleet. They’ll have 60 per cent more vehicle space and capacity for 1800 passengers – accommodating 400 more people than the current ships – so it’s easier than ever to catch a ride. Here are eight reasons why you should.

It’s easier than ever to catch Spirit Of Tasmania. (Image: Jess Bonde)

1. A Spirit of Tasmania crossing is an adventure

A trip with Spirit of Tasmania is one of Australia’s quintessential tourism experiences, crossing Bass Strait an adventure in itself. Besides the natural beauty of the ocean and Tasmania’s jaggard cliff faces reaching out to you as you get close to the island state, there are many activities onboard to keep guests entertained.

Two cinemas screen the latest movies, while local musicians and storytellers rove around the ship, entertaining passengers of all ages with songs, artistic creations and tales about Tasmania. There are kids’ game zones, face painters and circus performers that add a theatrical touch during school holidays.

TMK (Tasmanian Market Kitchen) on deck seven serves up a great selection of dishes featuring fresh Tassie produce for lunch and dinner, while The Pantry provides a range of grab-and-go snacks. Guests can also sample Tasmanian beer, cider, wines and spirits at three bars.

Sample Tasmanian beer, cider, wines and spirits at the bar.

2. Save time, money and hassle

Public transport isn’t much of an option for a thrilling, independent road trip, especially in Tasmania where services are sparse. And hiring a car can be expensive, especially when demand is high. Then you have to fork out for insurance, and you’re limited as to what luggage you can take if you’re flying to Tasmania. Travelling with your own vehicle removes these obstacles, leaving you to simply enjoy your journey.

Save time, money and hassle.

3. No baggage limits on Spirit of Tasmania

Pack as much as your car can carry on a Spirit of Tasmania ferry. With no baggage limits, you can come prepared for camping, bring as many books as you want to read in peace, pack your favourite ocean gear or anything else that your trip calls for.

Adult fares start at $69, while fares for children aged three to 15 start at $35 and kids under three travel free. Car fares start from $179, depending on vehicle size and the season you’re sailing in. Motorbikes and bicycle fares start at $90 and $19, respectively, each way.

Your ticket price then depends on what type of accommodation you choose for night sailings. You’re automatically booked into a recliner, with the option to upgrade to a cabin.

Pack as much as your car can carry.

4. Drive off the beaten track in Tasmania

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring Tasmania by car. A limited public transport system and many smaller trails and roads means your car will get you where buses simply can’t.

Plus, you can curate a trip to suit you. History buffs can head straight for the Convict Trail, Heritage Highway or Highlands Power Trail. Five wine trails take you to cellar doors all over the island, while you can visit more than 70 whisky distilleries on the Whisky and Spirits Trail.

Then there are Tasmanian beer and cider trails, the Tasting Trail that takes in almost 40 gastronomic stops across the north coast, and plenty more inspiring drive ideas.

Discover why a road trip in Tasmania is so magical. (Image: She Who Explores)

5. Pet-friendly travel

Spirit of Tasmania welcomes dogs, cats, pet rabbits and even some birds. They stay in kennels and specialised cages on ventilated decks. The crew check on them and supply fresh water regularly. Don’t forget to pack your pet’s favourite bedding for the journey.

Bring your animals along for the ride. (Image: Tourism Australia)

6. Enjoy a good night’s sleep – or a day sail

The journey between Geelong and Devonport takes between nine and 11 hours. Onboard accommodation includes twin-bed, four-bed and deluxe cabins, as well as recliners for the budget-conscious.

Day sailings operate between September and April and during high-demand periods. When travelling on a day ticket, you can wander around the ship without a specific seat allocation.

Nab a window seat and snacks during your day sailing.

7. Stargaze without light pollution

A Bass Strait crossing brings the unique chance to stargaze with no light pollution. This is particularly enticing over winter, when crisp, clear skies allow the best opportunity to spot the famous Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).

Spot the famous Aurora Australis. (Image: Pierre Destribats)

8. Avoid the stress of a flight

Taking your own car to Tasmania cuts out all the inconvenience that goes with catching a plane. By the time you’ve packed to within a milligram of your luggage allowance, driven to your nearest airport, queued for security, and paid a fortune for parking or taxis, stress levels are sky high. Not to mention flight delays and cancellations.

Jumping into the car – with as much luggage as you like and the family pet – for a relaxed start to your Tasmanian road trip is a dream come true.

Avoid airports. (Image: Artur Tumasjan)