TT-Line fast ferries were refitted while in service between Melbourne and Tasmania in Australia
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Trimline has completed a £13 million turnkey refurbishment programme to transform the interiors onboard two TT-Line fast ferries, Spirit of Tasmania I and II.
Involving more than 300 people from both Trimline’s UK headquarters and local Tasmanian contractors and subcontractors, the refits were largely carried out while the identical ferries were in service on the Bass Strait between Melbourne and Tasmania, Australia.
“TT-Line’s turnkey contractor, Trimline, completed the refurbishment works on the Spirit of Tasmania vessels on time and on budget with the support and help of Tasmanian-based contractors and companies commissioned by Trimline,” said Mike Grainger, Chairman, at TT-Line Company. “From a TT-Line Board perspective, we were very pleased that Trimline was so actively engaged with the Tasmanian businesses and that so many benefited from the project. It was a complicated task given some of the works were required while maintaining our overnight sailing schedule between mainland Australia and Tasmania. But the works were well planned and well executed.”
The extensive project involved a complete remodelling and upgrade of the public areas and four passenger decks, including 222 standard and deluxe cabins, onboard both vessels.
Both Spirit of Tasmania I and II were fitted with a new self-service restaurant named Tasmanian Market Kitchen; a ‘grab and go’ shop named The Pantry; three bars showcasing Tasmanian wines, ciders and beers; and an upgraded tourist information hub to assist passengers planning their holiday.
The ferries also feature fully refurbished lounges with recliners that are equipped with individual reading lights, a tray table, and a USB port; upgraded standard and deluxe Cabins; updated soft furnishings in all cabins; and astroturf flooring, deck chairs and lounges on the upper decks. New entertainment options include an arcade-style teen zone and kids play area, two new 48-seat cinemas and 28 new flat-screen TVs.
Following the refurbishment, TT-Line has reported a rise in 2016 bookings and scheduled extra day cruises to cater for the increasing demand from passengers.
“As one of the largest transformation projects that Trimline has been involved in, we are delighted to have completed the work on Spirit of Tasmania I and II,” said Andrew Richards, Trimline CEO. “It’s been a fantastic turnkey project for us to deliver, working in partnership with TT-Line, alongside a host of highly skilled local sub-contractors and suppliers, ensuring we were always utilising the highest quality materials available locally.”