SPIRIT of Tasmania IV’s keel was laid on Friday (28 October). Shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions hosted a keel-laying ceremony for the vessel at its facility in Finland.
Spirit of Tasmania CEO and managing director Bernard Dwyer and chairman Michael Grainger attended the ceremony.
“This keel laying ceremony is another important milestone for the project that takes us one step closer to having new vessels crossing Bass Strait,” Mr Dwyer said.
Recently minted 2022 Australian and Finnish coins were placed in the keel before the first block was lowered into position.
According to tradition, the coins symbolise good fortune for the builders and for all those who sail on the vessel.
Spirit of Tasmania IV is the first of two Spirit of Tasmania vessels under construction at the RMC shipyard. The second is Spirit of Tasmania V.
Spirit of Tasmania IV is reportedly tracking on time for delivery in the first quarter of 2024, while Spirit of Tasmania V is scheduled for delivery later that year.
“The arrival of the two new ferries in Australia in 2024 will be a significant moment for the company,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Forty per cent larger than the current vessels, the investment we are making in these vessels is a once in a generation event that will deliver important benefits to Tasmania’s visitor economy and the broader economy.”
RMC CEO Mika Heiskanen said the design and production of the new vessels proceeded according to schedule in spite of obstacles such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
“The keel laying of the project’s first vessel is a wonderful demonstration of this,” Mr Heiskanen said.
“The good progression of the project is also a sign of a strong next year.”
