Spirit of Tasmania IV has officially arrived in Australia, tying up at Fremantle just before 10am local time.

Spirit IV will use its stop in Fremantle for formal vessel importation into Australia, Customs and Immigration formalities, a crew change, bunkers and fresh stores.

From Fremantle, the vessel will travel to Tasmania, with an expected arrival into Hobart on Saturday 23 August for the final fit-out and to undertake vessel crew training, which will include emergency response exercises, passenger muster simulation, firefighting drills, deployment of lifeboats and the mass evacuation systems.

TT-Line CEO Chris Carbone said the arrival of Spirit IV into Fremantle was a significant milestone in the vessel’s journey to Australia.

“Spirit of Tasmania IV and V are generational investments that will ultimately benefit the broader Tasmanian economy and the visitor economy,” he said.

“We are obviously very excited about the new vessels - their increased size is important, which will allow for greater capacity for passengers, vehicles, caravans and freight.

“We are just as excited about the exceptional sailing experience they will deliver.”

There will also be a low-key “welcome event” at Devonport. Details as follows:

There will be a Welcome wave for the community for Spirit of Tasmania IV on Friday 22 August, 3.30pm – 5.30pm at the Mersey Bluff Precinct.

Spirit of Tasmania IV will position under a nautical mile due north of the Fairway Beacon, which should be close enough to get a good look at the vessel.

This position is such that both residents from West and East Devonport will have an opportunity to observe the new vessel.

The weather on the day will be a factor and may limit how close to shore this will be.