You Can Take Your Car For Free When You Catch The Ferry To Tasmania Between March to July
Kassia is the Editor of AWOL, and a straight-up travel…
The only thing better than a trip, is getting that trip for free (or at least part of it). Many states are kicking off programs to help get tourism booming again, which is great news for your wallet and your travel plans.
The latest scheme has been brought to us by Tasmania, and it’s called the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme.
In short, it’ll allow Spirit of Tasmania ferry passengers to that their cars, motorbikes or regular bikes with them for free when travelling between March and June this year. In long, it’s an extension of an ongoing rebate dating back to the mid-90s that made the cost of travelling to Tasmania more accessible from the mainland.
In a statement release on January 7, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack explained that “COVID-19 has significantly affected tourism in Tasmania and the number of passenger vehicles travelling across Bass Strait which is why we are moving to increase the rebate already available under our Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme (BSPVES) to the value of $6 million”.
“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 – a win-win for both Tasmanians and visitors looking to discover more of what the island has to offer,” he continued.
I’ll say it’s a win-win. While you’ll still need to pay your passenger fee, you’re essentially saving $240 for a return ferry trip. Yes, you can also take a caravan or motorhome and still save the same amount, but there’ll be an extra cost.
It’s honestly perfect timing, seeing as Aussie are embracing our great tradition of road tripping more than ever in 2021. On top of that, Tourism Australia data revealed we’re craving good, local food and wide open spaces — both of which Tassie has on lock. Personally, I also have the epic Overland Track on my 2021 bucket list, so I’m ready for this.
Of course, you’ll still need to pay attention to current border restrictions, but fingers crossed they’ll be dropped again by the time March rolls around. You can find more information and book over on the Spirit of Tasmania’s website.
(Lead Image: Instagram / @will_mac89)
Kassia is the Editor of AWOL, and a straight-up travel addict. She was born without a sense of direction, yet an intense desire to explore the world. As such, she's lost 90% of the time but she's learned to roll with it. You can catch her latest adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.