Is there a direct ship from Sydney?

No, the Spirit of Tasmania departs from Melbourne.

How long is the flight?

The flight is approximately 1.5 hours.

Do I need a car in Launceston?

It is highly recommended for exploring the region.

It has a temperate climate, but winters can be quite cold.

Are there taxis at the airport?

Yes, taxis and rideshare services are available.

Sydney

Launceston

Flight Ship

Sydney to Launceston

Updated: 29 May 2026

Launceston is located in northern Tasmania. The most efficient way to travel from Sydney is by a 1.5-hour direct flight to Launceston Airport (LST). Alternatively, you can fly to Melbourne and take the Spirit of Tasmania ship to Devonport, followed by a 1-hour drive to Launceston. Launceston is known for the Cataract Gorge and its historic architecture. It serves as a gateway to the Tamar Valley wine region.

Total Distance: 900 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Direct flight from Sydney to Launceston.

Cheapest Way

Direct flight booked well in advance.

Compare Sydney to Launceston Routes

	Flight Direct	Ship Connecting
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	10 hours (plus drive)
Avg Price	150-300 AUD	200-500 AUD
Operator	Jetstar, Qantas	Spirit of Tasmania
Route	Sydney Airport (SYD) to Launceston Airport (LST).	Melbourne (Port Melbourne) to Devonport, then drive to Launceston.
Tip	Book in advance for the best fares.	You must travel to Melbourne first to board the ship.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfer
Shuttle buses and taxis are available at Launceston Airport for city transfers.
Car Rental
Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding Tamar Valley.
Weather
Tasmania's weather can change rapidly; always pack layers.
Booking
Book flights and ferry tickets early, especially during holiday periods.
Local Produce
Visit the Harvest Market on Saturday mornings for fresh local Tasmanian produce.

Safety Tips

Driving
Tasmanian roads can be winding; drive carefully and observe speed limits.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of wildlife on roads at night, especially wallabies and wombats.
Sun Protection
The UV index in Tasmania is high; wear sunscreen even on cool days.
Emergency
Dial 000 for emergency services.