In a move set to increase Tasmanian tourism, the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme is being expanded to allow for passengers to travel with their vehicle, free of charge on the Spirit of Tasmania. This expansion will be for travel between 1 March 2021, and 30 June 2021.
The four-month period will apply to travel to both legs of travel, from Melbourne to Devonport and returning Devonport to Melbourne. The expansion of the scheme has come from the Federal Government with Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack announcing the changes.
“For travel between 1 March 2021 and 30 June 2021, Australians can take their car or motorbike to the Apple Isle at zero cost and discover everything this beautiful state has to offer,” Mr McCormack said.
During the downturn in travel and tourism over the past 12-months due to Covid-19, the Spirit of Tasmania has seen a drop in bookings by 85 per cent due to the pandemic. The free travel on the Spirit of Tasmania translates to a saving of $240 for a round trip.
While this expansion of the scheme will not cover the cost of a caravan, camper or motorhome heading over to Tasmania, it will however still apply, thus those towing or in motorhomes can still take advantage of the free travel opportunity on the Spirit of Tasmania. The free travel opportunity will end on June 30, or after $6 million has been spent; whichever comes first.
Worth noting, it seems this may well be an exceptionally popular opportunity, as at the time of writing, the booking site for the Spirit of Tasmania was not working.
