From there, the journey winds into the Huon Lounge, a sophisticated Tasmanian gin, whisky, cider, and craft beer haven. “The Huon Lounge is more of an up-market style bar. It’ll serve Tasmanian local gin, whiskies, high end ciders and craft beer,” says Harriman. “We expect that market to be of a range where our suppliers will be able to come in and offer tastings to our customers and passengers. It’s also got some really fantastic artwork that has the ability to be interchangeable, so we can actually tell the story of where that person is supplying from.” The “walking tour” continues into the Midlands and across the coasts, with a large Tasmanian shop stocking local produce, ice creams, and souvenirs, alongside the Mid Café, a 350-seat barista-style café serving paninis, muffins, shakes, and breakfast classics. Family-friendly entertainment is also front and centre of the design, with two cinemas – one for adults, one for children – alongside play spaces and accessibility features. Even the fussiest teenagers will struggle to complain of boredom, with a dedicated space which includes arcade-style games as well as gaming consoles. “Every area is accessible for all mobility people. Everything’s been designed with one eye on that… including Braille signage and a parent’s room,” Harriman notes.
of stairs is Deck 10, where passengers find Cradles Bar, styled like a lodge, with its warm atmosphere and fine wines by the glass. Here too are 12 deluxe cabins with attached lounges, offering a private retreat for premium travellers.
These ships are more than modern transport; they are floating showcases for Tasmanian industry. By prioritising local food, drink, furnishings and art, Spirit of Tasmania is amplifying the state’s producers on an international stage. “What we’re really trying to pitch this as is, the minute you set your feet onto the Spirit of Tasmania, your journey starts right there and then,” Harriman says. “And we want to highlight what this great state offers from food to suppliers, and just the great service levels that we have here in Tasmania. We’re super proud of it.”
Deck 8 rounds out with the intimate Thylacine room, a 16-seat space which can be used for private dining or board meetings. This backs into the Leatherwood Restaurant and adjoining Tasmanian Market Kitchen, where the flavours of Tasmania will be brought to life. Diners will be able to enjoy everything from two-course fine dining to buffet- style feasts under artwork celebrating Tasmania’s quirky, colourful cities. Above, Deck 9 houses the 301 cabins, 145 recliners and 47 business recliners, as well as a selection of accessible cabins with interconnecting doors. The ship also has 18 pet cabins for those who can’t leave their furry friends behind. Up another flight
That pride translates into real opportunities. Visitors who might only have sampled Tasmanian wines, seafood, or artisan goods once ashore will now encounter them earlier – and in curated, story-driven settings. It’s a chance for winemakers, brewers, distillers, and farmers to introduce their products to thousands of travellers before they even set foot in the state. For the hospitality sector, the ripple effects are significant. By offering a preview of Tasmania’s culinary and cultural richness, the ships are not only whetting appetites but also inspiring itineraries. A gin enjoyed in the Huon Lounge may lead to a cellar-door visit; a
20
Tasmanian Hospitality Review October/November Edition
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting