Samoa Shipping Corporation’s new $16.8 million MV Fotu-o-Samoa III has been officially blessed and commissioned into service, with the vessel expected to strengthen Samoa’s sea links with neighbouring Pacific islands.
The 45.5-metre landing craft 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 Fotu-o-Samoa III is intended to provide regional services connecting Samoa with the Cook Islands, Manu‘a, Tutuila and Tokelau.
The vessel provides capacity for vehicles and cargo and includes accommodation for 12 passengers.
Built by Sealink Shipyard in Miri, Malaysia, the vessel was purchased by SSC through a WST$16.8 million financing arrangement supported by the Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS) and BSP Bank.
SSC says the investment is intended to provide more reliable sea transportation, strengthen regional trade links and support the movement of essential supplies between Samoa and its Pacific neighbours.
The Corporation also acknowledged the responsibility associated with the multimillion-dollar investment, saying it must operate the vessel safely, maintain it properly and manage its services responsibly in order to meet its financial obligations and deliver long-term value.
Confirmed sailing schedules and booking arrangements for the new regional services have yet to be announced and will be released through SSC’s official channels.
SSC acknowledged the Government of Samoa for its continued 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, the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure’s Maritime Administration, and past and present SSC leadership, staff and stakeholders involved in the project.
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 what SSC described as a challenging 40-day voyage.
The new vessel is the third to carry the Fotu-o-Samoa name, continuing a legacy associated with Samoa’s maritime services.
SSC says safety, crew welfare and dependable service will remain central to the vessel’s operations as it begins its new role connecting Samoa with communities across the Pacific.
- Samoa’s $16.8 Million MV Fotu-o-Samoa III Commissioned for Regional Service - September 16, 2026
- Samoa’s Limited Edition Queen Elizabeth II Commemorative Banknote - September 14, 2026
- Lalaga le Vā Unites more than 300 Urban Community Leaders Against Drugs and Violence - September 8, 2026
