As Tasmania is an island, there are two ways to get there: by air or by sea.

By air

The major domestic carriers (Qantas, JetStar and Virgin Blue) fly into both Hobart and Launceston. QantasLink flies from Devonport, and regional airlines service Burnie (Wynyard) and King Island. See the Airport Information question for details about services to these airports.

Most flights from the mainland to Tasmania go via Melbourne. It is also possible to get direct flights to Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.

The cost of a return ticket to or from Melbourne is usually in the order of A$150 to A$300.

By sea

The Spirit of Tasmania are actually two ferries that sail in each direction between Devonport and Melbourne nightly. Crossings generally depart at 8 pm and arrive at 7 am. Cost is comparable to air travel, beginning at A$200 for a low-season return ticket.

Travel seasons are generally as follows: shoulder season from February-April and again from September until mid-December; off-peak (low) season from May-August; and peak (high) season from mid-December until late January.

It is advisable to book ahead during peak periods. During peak periods, additional daytime sailings are scheduled.

The Devil Cat (fast ferry) used to operate between George Town and Melbourne; this service has been discontinued. A third Spirit of Tasmania ferry used to operate between Devonport and Sydney, but this service was discontinued in August 2006.

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Last reviewed 2006-08-06 12:44:23