A passenger has launched legal action against TT-Line, the operator of the Spirit of Tasmania ferry service, alleging negligence after suffering serious injuries in a fall inside his cabin bathroom during a voyage across Bass Strait.
According to documents filed in the Federal Court of Australia, the 68-year-old man was travelling on the Spirit of Tasmania I in December 2022 when the incident occurred during an overnight crossing between Victoria and Tasmania. The passenger claims he was standing while using the ensuite toilet when the vessel experienced what he described as a sudden drop or movement, causing him to lose his balance and fall.
The lawsuit alleges there was no suitable handrail positioned close to the toilet that could have prevented the fall. The man claims the nearby towel rails and vanity appeared unsuitable for supporting a person's weight during unexpected ship movement. Court documents state he attempted to brace himself against the wall, but was thrown backwards, striking the shower wall before landing on the raised metal edge of the shower.
The passenger says he suffered significant injuries, including a compression fracture of the second lumbar vertebra and an aggravation of a pre-existing back condition. He alleges the injuries have resulted in permanent and continuing disabilities, ongoing medical treatment, reduced work capacity and financial loss. He is also seeking compensation for domestic care needs, medical expenses and the loss of enjoyment of what he says became a ruined holiday in Tasmania.
The claim further argues that TT-Line failed to adequately warn passengers about the safe use of cabin bathrooms while the ship was at sea. According to the plaintiff, the ferry operator should have installed appropriate grab rails and displayed warning signs advising passengers how to safely use the facilities during rough conditions.
TT-Line has denied all allegations of negligence. In its defence, the company argues that the stone bathroom vanity and towel rails provided adequate support and that the passenger "could and should have sat on the toilet seat" while using the facilities aboard a moving vessel. The operator also disputes the plaintiff's description of the sea conditions, stating the crossing experienced only moderate winds and small waves, with no reports from other passengers of any sudden drop at the time of the incident.
The ferry operator further contends that passengers with mobility concerns or special requirements have the option of requesting accessible cabins when making a booking. TT-Line maintains it met its duty of care and is contesting liability for the injuries alleged by the plaintiff.
The case highlights broader questions about passenger safety on vessels operating in open waters such as Bass Strait, where sea conditions can change quickly. The matter is expected to return to the Federal Court in November, when further legal arguments and evidence will be considered. No findings have been made by the court, and the allegations remain contested.
