4 June 2007
March to May performance
TT-Line's Devonport to Melbourne service on Spirit of
Tasmania I and II has enjoyed a strong March to May
period.
The combined passenger numbers for March, April and May are up
by more than nine per cent compared to the same three-month period
last year, while the number of passenger vehicles carried during
the same period has increased by nearly eight per cent.
As reported in this update previously, the freight market
remains extremely competitive, but TT-Line has continued to
maintain its customer base.
Increase in passenger numbers predicted
At the time of distribution of this communication, passenger
number predictions for the Spirit of Tasmania I and II
vessels (Devonport to Melbourne) point to a seven per cent increase
in 2006/07 compared to the previous financial year.
Passenger vehicle number predictions are also expected to
deliver a 6.3 per cent increase compared to the 2005/06 figure.
Extra vehicle capacity update
Work being undertaken by Tasmanian firm Taylor Brothers to cover
a section at the rear of deck five on both ships that will increase
vehicle capacity by 60 vehicles per sailing is on schedule to be
completed by the end of 2007.
When completed, it will add capacity for additional passengers
to travel between the Christmas and Easter periods and ensure the
Spirits can meet additional demand during the peak holiday
periods.
Cost savings a key focus
TT-Line has invested considerable time and effort to identify
ways to control costs and increase passenger numbers, the results
of which are already evident.
For example, cancelling selected Sunday sailings during the
winter period has resulted in significant cost savings for the
company as forecast.
As stated a number of times previously, TT-Line is not in a
position to compete with the discount airlines.
But the company can offer the only option for people who want to
travel with their car and as many pieces of luggage as they want,
an alternative which has proven to be very popular during the
quieter winter months thanks to the half price sale.
Winter sale a success
Spirit of Tasmania's winter sale, that offers half
price seats and cabins off full adult passenger fares for travel
between 1 May and 31 August, has been an important success for the
company.
As a result, passenger numbers have been boosted during the
traditionally quieter winter months which in turn benefits the
Tasmanian tourism industry.
-ends-
Released by:
Nicolas Turner
Tel: (03) 6270 2250 or 0418 538 865
