The one-millionth passenger travelling between Melbourne and Devonport on the Spirit of Tasmania fleet arrived this morning into Devonport on the overnight voyage (Monday 27 September).

The lucky Melbourne man, Paul Swain, and his partner travelled in style on Spirit of Tasmania I , being upgraded to a deluxe suite and enjoying a complimentary dinner at the on board á la carte restaurant.

Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon, Tourism Minister Ken Bacon and Member for Braddon Brenton Best were all at the Devonport terminal to greet 37-year-old Paul Swain and partner Diana Elliott.

Mr Lennon, who presented Mr Swain with a certificate, gourmet Tasmanian gift basket and passes to attractions in the state said, "It's amazing to think that the two new Bass Strait ships servicing the Melbourne route have carried one million passengers since they came on line in September 2002. The Spirits I and II have completed more than 1,800 journeys across Bass Strait in the last two years and their popularity is beyond doubt."

Mr Swain, a Software Sales Consultant from Middle Park, Victoria, said he chose to travel with Spirit of Tasmania because he was tired of travelling by air and wanted to do something that was "different, convenient and relaxed".

When asked what attracted him to Tasmania, Mr Swain said it was the convenience of getting on the ship with the car. "I've heard so many wonderful things about Tasmania. I was very excited when I was told I would be the one-millionth passenger. It added an additional thrill to what would already be an enjoyable holiday," Mr Swain said.

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