More grey nomads cross Bass Strait

Grey nomads are leading the growing number of travellers using the Bass Strait ferry service with passenger numbers up 8.9 per cent to 418,000 in the year up to July.

"That financial year has been a particularly big year for grey nomads: caravans were up 7.7 per cent and motorhomes were up by nine per cent," Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding told parliament on Thursday.

The Liberal government is crediting its changes to the operation of the twin Spirit of Tasmania vessels - including refurbishment, reduced fares and an increased sailing schedule - for the rise in bookings.