Samoa has a new inter-island ferry. The new boat is hoped to improve the service between the islands of Upolu and Savaii.
The $10 million tālā vessel named the Samoa Express II arrived in the country from Australia last Friday.
Samoa Shipping Corporation Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.), Leiataua Samuel Phineas told Talamua Media the crew of six are in isolation on the vessel, currently docked at the Apia Wharf.
He said they will be quarantined for a week after undergoing 14 days of quarantine out at sea before docking.
Minister of Finance, Sili Epa Tuioti said in Parliament “It is a reliable vessel with a dedicated area for passengers and another specific area for vehicles,”
The new ferry is expected to be in operation by April to ensure there is no congestion during the election period… when there is an expected influx of travelers between Upolu and Savaii.
It brings to three the number of vessels operating between the two islands.
Photo: Samoa Observer
