TT-LINE, operators of the Spirit of Tasmania ships, celebrated its 25th anniversary at the East Devonport terminal recently.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure Lara Giddings presented a special plaque to commemorate 25 years of TT-Line and Bass Strait shipping operations under Tasmanian Government ownership.

Captain Ralph McDonell from Abel Tasman, TT-Line's first ship in 1985, centre, overlooks the cutting of the cake with, from left, Captain Martin Watts from the present twin ships, Captain Jim Lewis from the original Spirit of Tasmania in 1993 and Captain Kon Eliades.

Ms Giddings said TT-Line had done an outstanding job, keeping visitors coming to Tasmania during its 25 years of operations.

“During its 25th year, the company has promoted a number of campaigns featuring discounted fares and other initiatives that have all delivered impressive results in terms of visitor numbers,” she said.

“This performance is even more impressive considering competition from other Australian destinations, more Australians choosing to holiday overseas and cheap airline fares.”

Former and present captains reunited to cut a celebratory cake to mark the occasion.

Captain Ralph McDonell from Abel Tasman, TT-Line’s first ship in 1985, Captain Jim Lewis from the original Spirit of Tasmania in 1993 and Captain Kon Eliades and Captain Martin Watts from the present twin ships all played an important role in reliving a nostalgic 25 years of TT-Line.

Special edition anniversary flags were also raised in the Devonport terminal and on board the ships.

Deputy chairman Michael Grainger said the success of the $25 fares that were offered on night sailings from  June  1 surpassed expectations.

“The tickets sold out in a week,” he said.

“This is just one example of the campaigns the company has been running for the ultimate benefit of the Tasmanian tourism industry and the broader Tasmanian economy.

“Much has obviously changed over the past 25 years, but I can assure you all that as we move forward we will continue to work to achieve excellence in safety, reliability and exceptional passenger and freight service.”