The new Bass Strait vessel Spirit of Tasmania III will be officially named and blessed today (19 December).

Spirit of Tasmania Chief Executive, Mr Peter Simmons said a short ceremony would be held at 1.00pm at Macquarie Wharf 3 in Hobart as part of a maritime tradition.

The public are invited to attend the short ceremony.

"The ship will be blessed by naval Chaplain Father Micheal Delaney and will then be named by Professor Jennifer Butler, wife of Tasmanian Governor Richard Butler," said Mr Simmons  

The Governor and Premier Bacon will also be in attendance.

Mr Simmons said that a special magnum of Tasmanian Meadowbank Mardi Sparkling Wine would be used for the ceremony.

Spirit of Tasmania III will depart Hobart for Devonport on Friday 2 January and will begin service from Sydney 13 January 2004.

Bookings can be made by calling 1800 777 462.

 

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For further information contact:

Simone Ferrier

Manager Corporate Communications

Tel: 03 9206 6220