The Spirit of Tasmania is one of Australia’s most iconic travel experiences. It transports passengers between Geelong and Devenport every day. Built in 1998, the Spirit of Tasmania is an engineering marvel, weighing 28,800 tonnes and measuring an impressive 194.3 metres.
The Challenge
Transporting people and vehicles across the Bass Strait has exposed the vessels to harsh weather conditions which can significantly impact their surfaces over time. Washing and repainting the internal centre casing would be a challenge due to the busy nature of the ships. Even when docked, the Spirit of Tasmania is extremely busy during the day, with heavy traffic coming on and off the ship and certain rules required to be followed while refuelling.
The Solution
Our Geelong team worked to undertake washing and painting works in the centre casing of Spirit of Tasmania 1 and 2 in a challenging marine environment. The painting works were completed with a detailed International Paints specification utilised.
Aquabreak PX was used in conjunction with Unitor Water Blasters, applied and agitated with a broom. Due to heavy diesel contaminant, this process was undertaken twice and then rinsed off with only water. After the initial washing, Interprime 4198 was applied as the first coat and then two coats 665 Interlac, to seal and protect the casing from the elements.
Results
Over five months from June to November 2024, our Geelong team completed the wash and repaint of the Spirit of Tasmania 1 and 2 ships. Focusing on the vehicle deck bulkheads and engine casings, the team worked to remove any traces of diesel and saltwater before repainting, to help refresh the appearance and provide protection from the harsh marine environment.
"Higgins were engaged to undertake cleaning and preservations works on board Spirit of Tasmania 1 and 2 vehicles deck bulkheads and engine casings. Both Higgins management and the onboard team were amenable, flexible and eager to complete the job to our satisfaction. The on-board crew directed by their leading hand provided a consistent standard and worked well within the ship’s strict time schedules. Overall, TT line was pleased with their efforts and the results on board"
- Technical Manager, TT Line
