Car + boat = an easy trip to Melbourne

All aboard! Tasmanian blogger Julie sets sail for the mainland with a trip on the Spirit of Tasmania.

What a perfect way to start our self-drive holiday in Melbourne. An easy breezy check-in on board the Spirit of Tasmania meant our holiday began as soon as we turned off our engine.

First on the bucket list was to check out our room, and it did not disappoint! We booked a (very spacious) twin cabin, which came with a fully equipped ensuite and porthole. If you’re looking for ocean views, they don’t get much better than this.

Just like a hotel, the Spirit of Tasmania has a number of different room types that can be booked. If you get in quick, try to book one of eight of the deluxe cabins – they are definitely worth the extra pennies! Families and groups have the option of a four or twin berth cabin, and for the more budget savvy travellers, opt for the ocean recliners (and maybe a sleeping pill!).

If you’re worried you’ll suffer cabin fever on board, think again. There is SO much to do on the Spirit of Tasmania. We began our night with a pre-dinner drink in one of the bars on board, where we had the chance to mingle with fellow travellers. Before we knew it, 7.30pm hit and it was time to set sail to the Leatherwood Restaurant.

Leatherwood Restaurant

We were met by our waiter, Seth, who explained the menu, pointing out that the chef only uses the very best Tasmanian produce – and boy was he right! Our three course meal was to die for.

I had entree of zucchini flowers, cape brim beef fillet served on a bed of garlic mash with mushroom gravy, which just melted in my mouth. For dessert, an individual mud cake with chocolate sauce, so light and yummy!

To top off the evening, we enjoyed a lovely bottle of wine and coffee to finish. The dining experience onboard the Spirit of Tasmania was far from disappointing and I cannot recommend it enough. You can have either a two course meal for $56 per person or three courses for $64 per person. Both served with tea or coffee to finish.

Before retiring for the night we had to decide whether to try our hand in the gaming room or go to the cinema. The gaming room won and luckily so did we!

After finally hitting the hay, we were able to enjoy a great night’s sleep. A little word of warning for those not-so-happy-morning-risers – be prepared for the EARLY wake up call. Disembarking at 5.45am is a little hellish.
All in all, we really enjoyed our night on board the Spirit of Tassie, and I can’t help thinking why I haven’t chosen this method of travel before – it’s sooo much more fun than flying!

We will be definitely be sailing again soon.

Need to know:

1. Spirit of Tasmania sails from Devonport Tasmania to Melbourne on an overnight trip departing at 7.30pm and arriving at 6am.
2. During peak seasons, day sailing trips depart at 9am and arrive at 6pm the same day.
3. The ferry has the capacity to carry 1140 passengers and 500 standard cars.
4. Motorhomes, caravans, campervans, motorbikes, pushbikes and cars towing trailers can also be accommodated on board.
5. On board facilities include: portable entertainment players, an on board cinema, tourism information, gift shop, gaming lounge, internet cafe, kids playroom and games arcade.