Images: Tt-Line and Rauma Marine Constructions

The second of two replacement ships for the Spirits of Tasmania has been officially launched in Finland.

Spirit of Tasmania 5 first experienced flooding when several valves were opened to flood the dry dock where the vessel is being built at Rauma Marine Constructions.

The new vessel, identical to Spirit of Tasmania 4, which is also currently under construction in Finland, is 212 metres long and 31 metres wide and will have 40 per cent more capacity for cargo, vehicles and passengers than the existing Spirits 1 and 2.

Spirits 4 and 5 are the first purpose-built vessels for the Devonport to Geelong route.

Tasmania Governor Barbara Baker officially launched Spirit 5, telling her audience she was proud of Tasmania’s content, including contracts awarded to companies across the state.