Tasmania, Australia
Launceston Airport (LST) is the main air hub for northern Tasmania. It sits approximately 15 km south of the city center. LST delivers a compact, easy-to-navigate experience. Direct international flights do not connect to Launceston; all global visitors transfer via major Australian cities like Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane.
Transfer options from LST to the city or accommodation include shuttle buses, taxis, and rideshare services. The Airporter Shuttle provides convenient transfers. Taxis are available outside the terminal, and Uber and DiDi services operate. Picking up a pre-booked car rental from desks inside the terminal presents a popular choice for visitors.
The Airporter Shuttle provides transfers between the airport and Launceston city center, reaching various accommodations.
Taxis stand available outside the terminal. Uber and DiDi services also operate for direct transport to your lodging.
Major car rental companies have desks inside the terminal, allowing flexibility and independence for exploring Tasmania.
Speed limits are strictly enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
Collisions with animals happen in rural areas, especially at night. Reduce speed and stay alert.
A physical Road map of Tasmania gains utility in areas with limited mobile reception. Plan fuel stops in remote areas.
The Spirit of Tasmania is the main sea link to the island. It operates daily overnight, and some day sailings, between Devonport (Tasmania) and Melbourne (Victoria). East Devonport is the port, approximately a 1-hour drive from Launceston.
Launceston does not possess a deep-water cruise ship port. Cruise ships typically dock in Hobart or Burnie/Port Arthur. Passengers might take organized excursions to Launceston from these ports. No regular passenger river transport operates for arrivals or departures; the Tamar River mainly hosts scenic cruises.
The Spirit of Tasmania ferry is the route to transport your car from mainland Australia to Devonport.
Cruise ships do not dock in Launceston; main ports are Hobart or Burnie/Port Arthur for Tasmania visits.
Ferry sailings generally proceed regardless of weather, but rough seas might occur, especially in winter.
No specific exit fees or taxes are paid by passengers departing Australia. Any applicable departure taxes typically gain inclusion in your airfare or ferry ticket price. Launceston Airport (LST) remains a small domestic airport. For domestic flights, it is suggested to arrive 60-90 minutes before your scheduled departure. Always check with your airline for their specific recommendations.
Departing on the Spirit of Tasmania from Devonport follows a similar check-in process to airport departures. Arrive well in advance, specifically if transporting a vehicle, to allow time for vehicle check-in and boarding. Check current Spirit of Tasmania guidelines for specific check-in times. Passengers clear immigration and customs at the port of departure.
Redline Coaches operates from a city terminus, which possesses basic waiting facilities for departing passengers.
Have your bus ticket confirmed before arrival at the terminus for a smooth boarding process.
Check with Redline Coaches for specific baggage allowance rules to avoid surprises upon departure.
Regardless of your departure method, arriving with ample time to spare reduces stress. Check for any transport updates or disruptions before leaving for the airport or port.
