The delivery schedule for the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries is expected to be delayed, reportedly due to a shortage of both labour and steel.
According to a Spirit of Tasmania spokesperson, the shortage is linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has disrupted the supply chain and will consequently lead to delayed arrivals of the ships in Australia.
The first ship is now anticipated to be completed in mid-June, with a potential delivery delay of up to seven weeks.
Initially, Spirit of Tasmania IV was scheduled for delivery in mid-2024, while Spirit of Tasmania V was expected to arrive in Australia by the end of the year.
Although the government had previously announced that the ships were slated for delivery in 2024, it has not yet issued any comments about possible delays.
Shipbuilders at Rauma Marine Constructions are said to be working diligently to minimise and make up for any delays.
