Instead of taking your usual short break this winter, why not consider an �over seas� trip to Tasmania? The natural beauty of Tasmania is heightened during the winter months with picturesque scenery, quaint towns, and a fantastic food and wine experience. So get away from the crowds and in front of a warm log fire. Spirit of Tasmania has a range of accommodation packages to suit almost every taste and what better way to start your journey than with a mini-cruise?

Travelling between Melbourne and Devonport, and Sydney and Devonport, Spirit of Tasmania voyages provide you with a magical cruising experience before you even reach your holiday destination. Sail away from the pressures of every day life and relax in the onboard lounge bars. Taste the fine Tasmanian food, beer and wine served at the onboard restaurant and sleep the night away in comfort. Standard cars travel free 45 weeks a year*, allowing you take those extra suitcases or golf clubs, and simply �drive� to your holiday destination!

Melindy Green, Spirit of Tasmania�s National Manager Passenger Sales and Marketing, said the key to the winter accommodation packages was flexibility.

�The packages are specially tailored to allow visitors the time to discover the State�s many hidden wonders at their own pace. With property locations throughout the state, travellers can experience for themselves the many wonders of Tasmania. The state also offers some great events during the winter months including Blooming Tasmania gardening experience, AFL, and state cricket.�

The seven night Chancellor Inns accommodation package offers amazing value at $235** per person, with properties located at Scamander, Burnie, Port Arthur and Queenstown. The property styles range from beach house to Tudor manor with stunning waterfront views at some locations. Extra nights are available at a very affordable $34.

For the budget-conscious family, the seven night Tas Villas Days End package is $301** per person plus a bonus free petrol special for all bookings of seven or more nights (conditions apply). Tas Villas are self-catering apartments and are located throughout Tasmania in Hobart, Launceston, Nubeena, Queenstown, Scamander and Ulverstone***. Spirit of Tasmania�s luxury packages have always been popular and the new six night Stay in Luxury package is no exception. At an incredible $420** per person, this is a great value package with two night stays at some of Tasmania�s premier manors and mansions. The package price also includes a fantastic 25% discount off second night stays at each of the properties.

There�s so much on offer in Tasmania this winter; from extensive wine routes throughout the state, to the cafes and restaurants serving fantastic, fresh food, and local markets that offer special products at great value. Experience the breathtaking wilderness in Tasmania, and the classic towns that tell the fascinating story of Australia in colonial times. Other seven night packages on offer are the Innkeepers Discovery Inns with bonus free petrol vouchers for upgrades (conditions apply), Best Western, Family Parks of Tasmania, Cosy Cabins and Budget Motels.

For bookings and enquiries on holiday packages, call 1800 811 580 or visit spiritoftasmania.com.au/packages

For further editorial information contact: Christina Koullas Corporate Communications Coordinator Tel: 03 9206 6220 / 0438 393 898 czk@spiritoftasmania.com.au

* Vehicle restrictions apply **Packages valid 27 April � 27 August 2004 and are subject to availability. Accommodation rates are per person, twin share. Accommodation package price excludes fare on Spirit of Tasmania. ***2 night minimum stay applies at Ulverstone