The new Spirits have sailed - now TT-Line must iron out first-trip teething troubles

The much-anticipated maiden voyages of the new Spirits have concluded, but not without their hiccups.

Two eager groups disembarked from Spirit of Tasmania IV and V in Geelong and Devonport, respectively, on Sunday morning in what may mark the end of a tumultuous political voyage.

Putting history behind them, politicians, councillors, TT-Line staff and other high-profile figures gathered in Devonport on Sunday to celebrate crossing the finish line.

"It was wonderful to be able to disembark from Geelong with so many enthusiastic travellers," Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who was on the first crossing of Spirit V, said.

While Mr Rockliff said it "all worked very well" on board Spirit V, we know there were some teething issues on IV, which was farewelled from Devonport by a large crowd on Saturday evening.

Travellers on the Devonport to Geelong journey were faced with issues printing cabin key cards before getting on board, as well as delays to on-board food and drink by delayed point-of-sale systems and periodic closing of the main eatery.

TT-Line chief executive Chris Carbone, who was on Spirit V, said there was a debrief on Sunday afternoon to discuss any issues.

"What I'd say is be kind, there's always going to be teething issues like that when you open a hotel," he said.

He said it was "an amazing feeling" being on board the inaugural sailing.

"Hundreds of passengers were super excited, and it was a really proud moment for the crew, they've been waiting for this, and it was just really special to see how excited the crew were to show off the amazing ship."

Mr Carbone said reception to the new facilities, such as business-class recliners and updated cabins, was positive.

Questions were also asked about pilot boats escorting Spirit IV out of the Mersey River, which Mr Carbone said was temporary while the captains get accreditation to steer themselves in and out of the ports.

Tasmanian Governor Caroline Wells and Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent were also on board Spirit V and were singing its praises after disembarking.

"They're so beautifully fitted out," Ms Wells said.

"These ships have come a long way, and I've been looking at some pictures over many years, it's been such a journey."

Mr Vincent said the new ships would "be an economic driver for this state for decades and decades".

"Not everybody understands the commitment and the level of investment needed, but when you drive around it's very simple to see the total transformation of the waterfront," he said.

"When you go on board the ships and see the quality of the finish, you realise just how big of a job this is."

The state continues to hold possession of Spirits I and II, now held in the Port of Melbourne pending a sale.

There was no comment on the costs of holding or the progress of the sale at a Sunday morning briefing, but Mr Carbone said previously there are interested parties in the vessels.