Spirit of Tasmania III departed the island of Syros, Greece last Friday night (10 October) after successfully completing delivery works at the Nerion Dockyard.

The vessel has successfully passed through the Suez Canal and is now sailing to Fremantle in Western Australia where it will refuel before proceeding to berth 6 at Macquarie Wharf in Hobart.

Depending on weather conditions, the vessel is expected to arrive in Hobart by the end of October.

While berthed in Hobart, work on she ship will include building 32 new crew cabins, modifications to the deck 8 open area, changes to the restaurant and bar areas and upgrades to some passenger accommodation.

The vessel will service between Sydney and Tasmania from mid January 2004. In the initial stage of its service, Spirit of Tasmania III will depart both Sydney and Devonport three times a week, taking 20.5 hours to complete the cruise journey that includes dinner, brunch, onboard shopping and live entertainment.

Over 8700 bookings have been taken so far with the $1.6m advertising campaign having begun 29 September 2003. For bookings or enquiries, customers can call Spirit of Tasmania on 1800 777 462.

For further information contact:

Christina Koullas Corporate Communications Coordinator Tel: 03 9206 6220 / 0438 393 898