The Sandy-Lanes: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

SeaRoad Shipping, based in Tasmania, has finalized the sale of its former Bass Strait roll-on/roll-off vessel, SEAROAD MERSEY, constructed in 1991. The iconic ferry has been acquired by a company registered in the Marshall Islands, which intends to operate it under Mexico's Baja Ferries. The transition marks a new chapter for the SEAROAD MERSEY as it embarks on a new journey in the Mexican maritime sector.

Toll Shipping, the prominent operator running services between Burnie and Melbourne, has recently secured a contract to construct two state-of-the-art vessels. Renowned international shipping magazine, Shippax, has disclosed that Toll Shipping made its selection from among 19 shipyards globally, opting for China's Jinling Shipyard. Currently, Toll operates the Tasmanian Achiever and Victorian Reliance, which together transport approximately 120,000 containers annually across the Bass Strait. Back in 2014, the company expressed ambitions to introduce two new ships to its fleet for the Bass Strait routes by mid-2019. Although Toll has not yet officially confirmed the recent Shippax report, sources indicate that Jinling was chosen for its timely delivery schedule, strong reputation, competitive pricing, and commitment to quality. The new vessels, each measuring 210 meters and weighing 12,000 tons, will boast a capacity to carry 700 containers and accommodate 60 small cars, featuring enhancements aimed at improving environmental sustainability and fuel efficiency. Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding commented positively on this development, stating, "The Government welcomes any investments that enhance freight capacity across Bass Strait. Tasmania is witnessing the fastest-growing export sector in the nation, and more investment is crucial for exporters to expand, create jobs, and access new markets." Meanwhile, as Toll Shipping progresses, its competitor Searoad Holdings is preparing for sea trials of its newly constructed $100 million liquid natural gas-powered ship, which is being built in Germany. This 182-meter vessel, set to replace the SEAROAD MERSEY, was launched in June and is scheduled to arrive in Tasmania by December. It will carry 400 containers, markedly increasing the capacity compared to the 260-container limit of the existing SEAROAD MERSEY. Initially, Searoad planned to build two ships at once but has decided to evaluate the performance of the first vessel before commissioning a replacement for the Searoad Tamar. These investments in the Bass Strait are further supported by the Federal Government’s decision to extend the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme to encompass exports aimed at international markets. Additionally, the TT-Line is anticipated to unveil two new vessels in the upcoming 2020s.