Travellers say flights plus car rental is cheaper than taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferries

THE cost of travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania has been branded "far too expensive".

Spirit of Tasmania

THE cost of travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania has been branded "far too expensive" following tourism industry concerns about rebates for passenger fares.

Mercury readers said the cost of travelling on the ferry was a major deterrent to travel.

Tourism Industry Council Tasmania this week raised concerns government rebates for passenger travel across Bass Strait was at an all-time low, jeopardising tourism.

Many people responding on Facebook yesterday said it was cheaper to fly to Tasmania and hire a car, than to bring their own on the ferry.

"We crossed from England to Ireland with a car and (four) people for half of what it costs to (go to) Tassie," one commentator said.

"The whole fare structure is wrong and needs an overhaul as it's far too expensive for families and for the retirees with their van," another said.

Others said the ferry should be run as a community service, not a moneymaking venture.

Wilder propositions included building a bridge, with a service station and cafe at the midway point, with a $50 toll.

A Spirit of Tasmanian spokeswoman said prices fluctuate depending on availability and demand, with many sailings over Christmas and the New Year fully booked.

She said adult fares had sold for between $190 and $289 each way and cars cost $89 each way.

She said bookings were up by more than 8 per cent compared with the same time last year.

"Our spring campaign this year had $5 children's fares for travel in summer for 2013-14 and Spirit of Tasmania are excited about some new sales campaigns that will be released in early 2014," she said.

Bookings were solid throughout the peak season, with some Melbourne to Devonport services fully booked for cars and caravans or trailers.

"From Boxing Day until 28 December, we are sold out and (also) sold out for the night sailing departure on Sunday, 29 December," she said.

Flights in and out of Tasmania for the same period were available for as little as $50, with fares available for services today and tomorrow for between $190 and $660.

However, tourism groups warned hire cars were heavily booked.

Tigerair spokeswoman Vanessa Regan said bookings to Hobart this summer were stronger than last year and the airline had put on extra services to cope with demand.

"Thanks to key events such as the Sydney-Hobart yacht race and Taste of Tasmania, Hobart continues to be a popular destination," Ms Regan said.