TECHNICAL ISSUES with the LNG fuelling system on newbuild sister ropaxes Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V will further delay both vessels’ departure for their home state.
Spirit IV had been due to depart its lay-up berth in Leith, Scotland for Hobart yesterday, with local reports indicating plenty of on-board activity including the activation of generators ensuring shore power was no longer required.
Eric Abetz, Minister for Transport, said today the Tasmanian Government has been advised by TT-Line that a technical issue has been detected on board the sisters by their Finnish builder, Rauma Marine Constructions, “in relation to the Liquified Natural Gas system”.
The issue was identified as part of the sea trials for Spirit V, the second set of which took place 17-18 May. The ship is yet to be handed over to TT Line by RMC.
“RMC has advised TT-Line that the issue needs further assessment and rectification, and as a result Spirit IV will not depart for Australia until the work is completed,” Mr Abetz said.
“The Government is awaiting further details in relation to a new expected departure date, but it is understood that this work will take some time.
“TT-Line, which has representatives on the ground at RMC, is engaging with the ship builder. Any repair costs will be covered under warranty with RMC.”
The Tasmanian Government and TT-Line will continue to provide updates as further information comes to hand, Mr Abetz said. The ship will be relocated to Hobart as soon as possible for final fitout.
Wartsilã is the supplier of the power production and fuel processing system on the new Spirits, which are outfitted with four Tier III-compliant main engines, three auxiliary engines and two 400 cbm, tank-type C-based Wartsilã LNGPac systems.