American Samoa Ferry Guide: How to Use the Ferry for Interisland Travel in American Samoa

The primary ferry service connecting Tutuila (Pago Pago) with the remote Manu'a Islands is operated by the Department of Port Administration's Water Transportation Division. This essential lifeline service provides the only regular public boat transport to these outer islands.

The MV Manu'atele makes regular trips to the Manu'a Islands three times a month. The typical schedule sees the vessel loading cargo and luggage throughout the day, with passengers boarding in the evening and departing Pago Pago at 10 pm, arriving in Manu'a at 6 am the following morning.

The ship normally remains alongside overnight in Manu'a and departs the next evening, arriving back in Pago Pago the following morning. However, it's worth noting that the ship is regularly out of service for monthly periods for maintenance and has been known to sustain damage during storms in the harbour, so we'd recommend having a backup plan like one of the domestic flights.

Ferry Terminals and Route

The ferry departs from the Port of Pago Pago on Tutuila and follows a specific route through the Manu'a Islands. The captain determines the order of stops, but typically the vessel first stops at Faleasao Harbour on Ta'ū, then continues to Ofu Village on Ofu Island. In rough weather conditions, the ferry may use tenders for passenger transfer.

For current departure times, contact the Water Transportation Division directly, as schedules change frequently based on weather conditions and operational requirements.

Ferry Journey Duration

The journey takes approximately 8 hours to reach the Manu'a Islands from Pago Pago, and 6 hrs 30 mins for the return trip, depending on weather conditions and which island you're travelling to first.

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Onboard Facilities

The MV Manu'atele typically carries about 50 passengers despite its 120-passenger capacity. It has 68 large cushioned seats on the lower deck with air conditioning and some power outlets. The vessel also features two outside decks with metal benches for those who prefer fresh air, though passengers should wear flip-flops (or shoes they don't mind getting wet) as the lower outside deck may have water covering the floor.

The ferry also provides essential amenities, including bathrooms and free WiFi (Starlink system - password typically posted on the wall).

There is no canteen or food service onboard, so passengers must bring their own food and beverages for the journey.

Luggage is stored in open containers on deck, organised by destination island. The boarding process prioritises senior citizens and passengers with disabilities, followed by passengers in order of when they paid for their tickets.

Ferry Fares and Pricing

Ferry travel to the Manu'a Islands is remarkably affordable, making these remote islands accessible to most travellers:

Passenger Fares:

• Adults and Senior Citizens: US$30 one-way, US$60 round-trip
• Children ages 11 and under: Free of charge
• Children ages 12 to 18: US$15 one-way, US$30 round-trip

Vehicle Transport:

• Mini-Compact, Compact, and Mid-Size vehicles: US$250 one-way
• Large vehicles: US$500 one-way

For more costs to keep in mind for your trip, check out American Samoa Travel Budget: How Much Does a Trip to American Samoa Cost? LINK#TT008

Ferry Bookings and Reservations

Given the flexible nature of the service and the vessel's capacity, advance booking is helpful but not always necessary. However, we'd still recommend confirming sailing schedules before your planned departure, as schedules can vary based on weather conditions, special government runs or local events.

Contact the Water Transportation Division for current booking procedures and to confirm sailing schedules before your planned departure.

The Water Transportation Division operates an aluminium catamaran called Segaula that caters for travellers between Ta'ū and Ofu islands in the Manu'a group. At around US$150, this is typically on par with flights from Pago Pago but offers a good option to visit both Ta'ū and Ofu-Olosega when you're short on time. The ferry/boat journey between Ta'ū and Ofu takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

There are sometimes private boat charters available, known as alia boats, which are best organised through your accommodation host. Locals typically have the phone number of the right guys to talk to.

Boats usually depart from Faleasao Harbor in Faleasao Village, but sometimes from the smaller Ta'ū Harbor in the Si'ufaga district, and arrive at Ofu Harbor in Ofu village, or vice versa.

Needless to say, the journey offers stunning views of these remote islands, as well as an opportunity for seabird and dolphin-spotting.

For more details on taking boats between the Manu'a Islands, check out How to Catch Alia Boats in American Samoa LINK#T023.

Another addition to the American Samoan ferry scene is the scenic 10-minute ferry ride from Tutuila to peaceful Aunu'u Island.

The journey starts from the village of Auasi on Tutuila's coast, whisking you across to this tranquil little island getaway.

For more information, check out How to Catch Alia Boats in American Samoa LINK#T023.

Ferry services in American Samoa operate between American Samoa and the neighbouring country of Samoa with Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC). The journey takes approximately eight to 10 hours, crossing a distance of 84 mi (135 km).

Learn more about visiting Samoa on our sister website, SamoaPocketGuide.com.

Ferry Terminals in American Samoa and Samoa

The ferry terminal for taking ferries from American Samoa to Samoa is at the Port of Pago Pago, which is easy to find in Utulei along Route 001.

In Samoa, the ferry terminal is in the capital Apia, at the Apia Harbour in the suburb of Matautu-Tai, just off Beach Road.

American Samoa - Samoa Ferry Schedules

Ferries between American Samoa and Samoa travel back and forth once a week, departing Pago Pago on a Saturday (typically around 8 am) and arriving back in Pago Pago on a Thursday (usually by 10 pm). Any cancelled sailings are usually posted on the Samoa Shipping Corporation Facebook Page.

Ferry timetables for American Samoa are available on the SSC website and are usually updated every month.

American Samoa - Samoa Ferry Fares

Ferry prices between American Samoa and Samoa are:

• Adults: US$75 one way or US$98 return
• Children ages 2-12: US$45 one way or US$60 return
• Infants under 2 years old: US$23 one way or US$30 return.

American Samoa - Samoa Ferry Bookings

Bookings can be made via email (reservations@ssc.ws / info@ssc.ws) or at the SSC Office in Apia (Beach Road, Matautu-Tai).

Note that if you are travelling from Samoa to American Samoa, you will need to apply for an Entry Permit before arrival - see our American Samoa Visa Guide