New Spirit of Tasmania V ferry damaged as hurricane winds hit Finnish port

Hurricane-force winds has caused the new Spirit of Tasmania V ferry being built in Finland to break loose from it’s berth, causing hull damage. The details >>>

The trouble-plagued new Spirit of Tasmania ferries have been dealt another blow with the Spirit V ship damaged in hurricane-force winds when it broke free from its berth.

TT-Line Acting CEO Kym Sayers said the vessel broke loose during a severe storm in the Finnish port of Rauma.

“As a result of the severe storm in Finland, Spirit of Tasmania V was forced against the quay side opposite, but the presence of a tug and two barges between the vessel and the quay side prevented serious damage to the hull.

Spirit of Tasmania V, has been officially named and launched at a traditional ceremony at shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) yards in Finland.

“Spirit of Tasmania V is floating, safe and secure with every action possible being taken to protect the vessel,” she said.

“A detailed assessment of any damage is just not possible at this stage, but it appears there has been no breach to the hull.

“There are three tugs currently alongside Spirit of Tasmania V, and as soon as wind conditions are suitable, the vessel will be returned and secured to the layup berth at RMC.”

Ms Sayers said a senior representative TT-Line was based in Finland and was working closely with the ship builder.

Spirit of Tasmania V, has been officially named and launched at a traditional ceremony at shipbuilder Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) yards in Finland. Governor of Tasmania, Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC. Picture: Supplied/TT-Line

Spirit of Tasmania V was at lay-up berth at RMC still being completed for handover. TT-Line has not taken legal ownership of the vessel.

Ms Sayers said Spirit of Tasmania IV was secured and being readied for removal to the less challenging weather of Scotland where the vessel will be held while TT-Line assesses its options for the vessel.

A lone car drives on a foggy, snowy motorway Nr. 3 in Nurmijarvi, Finland, on November 1, 2024, as first snow appeared in southern Finland giving the country a winter-like aspect. Picture: AFP

Premier Jeremy Rockliff was aware of the incident but made no mention of it at his press conference earlier today confirming the government was considering a merger between TT-Line, TasPorts and TasRail.

The Premier emphasised the need for a united “Team Tasmania” approach and to give Tasmanians greater accountability and to work together in the best interests of the sate.

Later a government spokesperson released a response to the latest incident.

“TT-Line has kept the government informed of the situation,” the spokesperson said.