So, you need to get your car from Tassie to the Mainland? Don't worry, mate, we've all been there.
Let's face it, driving that far underwater just isn't an option (not yet, anyway – Elon Musk, are you listening?). But fear not, there are a few ways to get your four-wheeled friend across the Bass Strait without resorting to a life jacket and a whole lot of optimism.
| How To Get A Car From Tasmania To Melbourne |
Ferry McFerryface: The Classic Choice
Yep, the good ol' Spirit of Tasmania ferry is a reliable way to get your car and yourself to Melbourne. It's like a mini cruise for your car (think less pi�a coladas, more seasickness patches). Here's the thing: it can be a bit pricey, so if you're on a budget, this might not be your best bet.
Pros:
- You get a little island getaway on the way (bonus wombat spotting opportunity?)
- It's a pretty smooth ride (unless you get caught in a storm, then it's more of a "hold onto your hat" situation)
Cons:
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- Can be a bit on the expensive side
- You're stuck on a boat for a few hours (although, there is a movie theatre onboard. Just saying...)
Car Carrier Capers: Hitching a Ride
This is a great option for those who don't fancy being stuck on a boat or don't have the time. Basically, you hand over your keys and your car hitches a ride on a giant car-carrying truck. It's like a luxury bus for vehicles, minus the complimentary water bottles (although, who knows, maybe some companies are upping their car carrier game these days?).
Pros:
- Generally cheaper than the ferry
- Quicker than waiting around for a boat
- You don't have to deal with seasickness (unless you get seasick by proxy?)
Cons:
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
- You don't get to enjoy the scenery (your car gets all the fun views)
- You have to trust complete strangers with your precious wheels (gulp!)
The Great Tassie Car Caper: Choosing Your Champion
Alright, so you've decided which method is best for you. Now comes the real fun: picking a company to get your car across the ditch. There are a bunch of options out there, so do your research and compare prices. Don't be afraid to haggle a bit – it's the Aussie way (well, maybe not officially, but hey, it never hurts to try!).
Here are some things to consider:
- Price: This is probably the biggest factor for most people. Get quotes from a few different companies before you make a decision.
- Service: Do they offer door-to-door service, or will you have to drop your car off at a depot?
- Speed: How quickly do you need your car to get to Melbourne?
- Reviews: Check out what other people have said about the company before you book.
Remember: The cheapest option isn't always the best. Sometimes it's worth paying a bit extra for a company with a good reputation and excellent service.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
FAQ: Your Tassie Car Conundrum Conquered
1. How to prepare my car for the trip?
- Make sure your car is in good working order and has a full tank of gas.
- Check your tyre pressure and top it up if needed.
- Remove any loose items from the car that could become projectiles during transport (think that porcelain budgie collection you inherited from Aunt Edna).
2. How long will it take to get my car to Melbourne?
- By ferry, it will take about 12-14 hours.
- By car carrier, it could take anywhere from 3-7 days, depending on the company and the route.
3. What if my car breaks down on the way?
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- Most car carrier companies will offer some form of roadside assistance. Check with the company you choose to see what's included.
4. Can I take anything with me on the ferry?
- Of course! You can bring luggage, pets (check the ferry company's pet policy first), and even your surfboard (although, how you'll manage that on a ferry is beyond me).
5. What happens when my car arrives in Melbourne?
- The company will usually contact you to arrange a pick-up time.
So there you have it! Getting your car from Tassie to Melbourne is a breeze. Now you can relax, enjoy the ride (or lack thereof, if you're going the car carrier route