Samoa Shipping Corporation’s newest vessel, the MV Fotu-o-Samoa III, has been officially blessed and commissioned into service, marking a significant investment in Samoa’s maritime transport and regional connectivity.
The vessel was commissioned at Salelologa Port, Savai‘i, on Monday 14 September 2026, with the keynote address delivered by the Prime Minister, who is also the Minister responsible for the Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC).
Owned and operated by SSC, the MV Fotu-o-Samoa III is expected to strengthen the movement of vehicles, cargo and essential supplies while expanding Samoa’s maritime links with neighbouring Pacific islands.
The 45.5-metre landing craft was built by Sealink Shipyard in Miri, Malaysia, and purchased by SSC through a WST$16.8 million financing arrangement supported by the Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS) and BSP Bank.
The vessel has capacity for vehicles and cargo, as well as accommodation for 12 passengers.
According to SSC, the Fotu-o-Samoa III is intended to provide regional services connecting Samoa with the Cook Islands, Manu‘a, Tutuila and Tokelau.
Confirmed sailing schedules and booking information are expected to be announced through SSC’s official channels.
The Corporation said the acquisition represents an investment in reliable sea transport and stronger regional trade links, while also acknowledging the financial responsibility associated with the new vessel.
SSC said it is committed to operating the Fotu-o-Samoa III safely, maintaining the vessel to the required standards and managing its services responsibly to meet financial obligations and provide long-term value.
The Corporation acknowledged the Government of Samoa for its support throughout the project, including during changes to the vessel’s construction and delivery timeline.
It also acknowledged UTOS, BSP Bank, Sealink Shipyard, the Classification Society and the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure’s Maritime Administration, as well as past and present SSC leadership, staff and other stakeholders involved in bringing the vessel into service
Special recognition was given to Delivery Captain Lumanuvae Mapu Jnr. Tapuai Soti and the delivery crew, who brought the Fotu-o-Samoa III home from Malaysia following a challenging 40-day voyage.
The vessel is the third to carry the Fotu-o-Samoa name, continuing a longstanding connection between the name and Samoa’s maritime services.
SSC said safety, crew welfare and dependable service would remain central to the vessel’s operations.
The commissioning of the Fotu-o-Samoa III adds another vessel to Samoa’s maritime transport capacity, with its planned regional routes expected to support trade, transportation and connectivity between Samoa and neighbouring Pacific communities.
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