Residents on the state's northwest coast have got a first look at the new Spirit of Tasmania ferry, as it sailed past Devonport on its way to Hobart. Most were excited to see the Spirit IV, but there was also regret that infrastructure delays mean it won't return to its home port for more than a year.
00:00A first glimpse, through mist and rain, of Tasmania's new Bass Strait Ferry.
00:08Locals braved the weather at Devonport's Mersey Bluff to see the long-awaited Spirit 4.
00:14We're in the spirit!
00:16The kids are very excited. What did you think of the ship?
00:19It was very cool.
00:20I loved it!
00:22I've seen the finish of the Empress, I've seen the able Tasman, and now a new spirit.
00:28While the reception was warm, the new ferries' travel journey is no secret.
00:33It's sad, isn't it? I mean, we're not going to get it for one another at least another 12 months.
00:37Have they got anywhere to park it?
00:38It's been a shambles, hasn't it, really?
00:40The process to replace the current Bass Strait ferries began in 2017 and was expected to be completed by 2021.
00:48But the original shipbuilder went bust, and the cost and completion date of the new ships blew out.
00:55Then it was revealed construction of facilities for them to berth in Devonport was over budget and years behind schedule.
01:02So this first new ferry had to spend six months at a Scottish port, costing $4.3 million and creating a global spectacle.
01:12A tale of another ferry fiasco.
01:15The spirits replacement fiasco forced the Minister in charge of the project to resign from Cabinet.
01:21But the Devonport Mayor is looking forward to the benefits the new ferries will bring.
01:25This is a real positive. The people are here to celebrate that beautiful ship that is going to make a huge difference to Tasmania.
01:33Those on board are also looking forward to smoother sailing.
01:37As we came across the Great Australian Bight in winter a couple of nights ago, Force Nine Gale with eight metres seas and she handled it beautifully.
01:51It'll be more than a year before the people of Devonport see this ship go in and out of the city, so for now it's bon voyage.
01:58Spirit 4 is expected to dock in Hobart tomorrow, where it'll be given a final fit out.
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