The Caravan Industry Association of Australia has given the thumbs up to news that caravanners heading to the Apple Isle from the mainland will depart from Geelong rather than Port Melbourne from 2022.
The TT-Line Company which operates the two Bass Strait ferries announced this week its Victorian port operations for Spirit of Tasmania will be moving from Station Pier, Port Melbourne, to Corio Quay, north of Geelong.
The new 12 hectare dedicated site will include a purpose designed passenger terminal building, a passenger vehicle marshalling area for 600 cars, more efficient passenger vehicle check in, security facilities, public amenities, food and beverage outlet, children’s play area and a pet exercise area.
“Having inspected both the new facility and the plans for the new ships this is a game changer moment for the Tasmanian tourism industry,” Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont said.
“With visitors arriving by the Spirit known to stay longer and disperse further, this presents a great opportunity for Tasmania to enjoy the fruits of a road trip led recovery.”
Lamont said the move will not only help to ease congestion in streets of inner-city Melbourne, it provides a new gateway for those departing Tasmania to visit the Great Ocean Road and other west Victorian coastline attractions.
"Tasmania is one of the great caravanning destinations in the country, and this move will provide an enhanced consumer experience for those travelling over the Bass Strait, further building anticipation for the trip ahead," he said.
"It also coincides with the introduction of new capacity with the new ships coming online with much greater access and space for caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes to visit the island being that they will be higher and wider with more deck space available for industry product."