What to do and see in Devonport, Tasmania: The Best Transportation

Reviewed By gds199 - Sydney, Australia

First time on the Spirit, with car and kids. Did the day sail from Melbourne to Devonport and over night sail return (after 2 weeks of gorgeous Tassie). The experience started off bad with over 3hrs delay in Melbourne. The road into the Ferry terminal was a carpark at least 500m before the termainal gate. Some street chit chats with fellow travelers and bit of patience helped. Once in, it was thrilling to drive onboard. Inside we spent a good half hour exploring the various levels and what facilities were there, before settling into a lounge on Deck 9. We didn't book a private cabin for the day sail. Time flew suprisingly quickly in the day sail. The kids were ambly entertained with the gaming area and arcade, as well as going "outside". Plenty of options for food, pantry, restaurants and bars. We enjoyed lots of pizza as well as recommend the restaurant options. Several plug points to keep the electronics powered up. The two cinema rooms and plenty of space in the lounges. And there was lots of variations in the lounges, child friendly open lounges as well quiet areas, single seaters, three seaters and different decor. There was also a toddler jungle gym and space with kiddy tables with toddler TV programs running. Only thing missing was an adults-only play room! (or maybe I missed it!) The night sail was short and sweet. Easy boarding from Devonport. We booked a 4 bunk bed cabin with ensuite. Plenty of space inside. We also checked out the recliner area (as a single friend joined us on the return trip). It was perhaps the most non appealing space on board. It felt like on a plane, with rows of seats. Dozing off in a public lounge (or a cabin) seemed more comfortable. As we had explored the other decks earlier, we simply had some dinner and drinks and went to bed. Bit of rocking but nothing any of us couldn't sleep through. Woke up 5am for a early start to the day, which for us was the drive back up to Sydney! A special mention that the staff on board were excellent. Both on the Day and night sail. Very friendly, cheerful and helpful. Highly recommend.