6 Best Boat Tours in American Samoa

Samriel Aunu'u Island Getaway offers an authentic fishing experience that goes far beyond simply casting a line.

Led by Pika, this flexible operation provides both trolling and bottom fishing charters using traditional local vessels like the alia boats, a genuine American Samoan fishing boat.

Pika's commitment to authentic cultural experiences is what makes this tour truly special; he's not just a fishing guide but a cultural ambassador who aims to plant seeds of American Samoan traditions with every visitor. His network of local colleagues ensures that even larger groups can be accommodated, whilst his honest approach about weather dependency reflects the authentic reality of island life.

The flexibility is handy, with Pika describing himself as the go-to organiser who can arrange virtually anything across these remote islands. Whether you're after a half-day trolling adventure or a full cultural fishing experience, the focus remains on creating meaningful connections that visitors can share with their families worldwide.

American Samoa's leading commercial boat charter with more equipment than you can shake a stick (or a fishing rod) at, Pago Pago Marine Charters delivers private full-day fishing adventures around Tutuila.

Target the region's prized species, including yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, dogstooth tuna, marlin and sailfish. The eight-hour charter accommodates up to six people for the same price, whether you're solo or with a full group, and includes all fishing gear, fuel, crew, ice and water.

There are plenty of fishing grounds to cover, including the outer banks, where fishing pressure is significantly lighter than closer inshore waters, dramatically improving your chances of landing trophy fish. You'll keep the majority of your catch, making this both an adventure and a practical way to stock up on fresh seafood.

Run by passionate locals who genuinely love being on the water, the operation offers convenient pickups from cruise ships and hotels. Just remember to bring your own food and drinks for the day, though there's a handy bakery near the marina for last-minute provisions.

A seriously strange but totally fun way to get on the waters of the Pago Pago Harbor is with a waterbike rental with Adventures Unlimited!

These unusual contraptions, essentially a bicycle mounted on two canoes that creates a surprisingly stable and fun watercraft, may be slow and require wide turns, but they provide an entertaining and memorable way to discover the harbour's hidden gems. Paddle out to the right side of the harbour where sea turtles are frequently spotted, or explore the coral areas accessible through breaks in the reef. BYO your snorkelling gear, which you can put in the craft's compartments, if that interests you.

The shaded tree areas along the shoreline offer perfect rest stops during your aquatic adventure. You can venture anywhere within the protective reef breaks, making this a safe yet exciting exploration experience.

For those seeking a more traditional approach, groups can also enquire about hiring long boats for a classic paddling experience around the same scenic waters.

A way to explore the Pago Pago Harbor using a method you may be more familiar, South Pacific Watersports (SPW) offers an epic selection of watersports rentals conveniently close to town.

This versatile operation provides everything from kayak and paddleboard rentals to guided outrigger canoe tours around the harbour's pristine waters.

The equipment rental options cater to all skill levels, with single kayaks, double kayaks, snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards all available at an hourly rate. For those wanting to explore longer, half-day and full-day rental packages are available upon request.

Once you're geared up, you have a vast area of the Pago Pago Harbor to explore - one of the world's largest natural harbours! The harbour is well-sheltered and boasts pockets of coral reef that make taking snorkelling gear with your kayak or SUP well worth it. We highly recommend staying within the harbour for safety, where you'll discover vibrant coral formations perfect for underwater exploration.

Keep your eyes peeled for the local marine life - turtles are frequently spotted gliding through the waters, and you might even catch a glimpse of them from the business's porch before you head out. Operating six days a week, there's plenty of opportunity to experience these incredible water activities during your visit.

Experience the profound cultural significance of American Samoa's traditional fautasi outrigger canoes with South Pacific Watersports.

These magnificent racing craft, once used for warfare and transport, now embody the Samoan values of teamwork and collective achievement that have been passed down through generations of boat-building families.

Your harbour tour offers a unique perspective of Pago Pago from the water, guided by experienced steersmen (and women). Learn how each fautasi represents not just a village but centuries of maritime heritage, whilst enjoying stunning waterfront views that can only be appreciated from this traditional vantage point.

These tours accommodate both small and large groups, providing an authentic cultural experience that connects you directly to the racing traditions that draw entire communities to Pago Pago Harbor during the celebrated fautasi races.

Another way to experience a boat tour with Pago Pago Marine Charters is by chartering their boats for scuba diving.

They offer private scuba diving charters for up to six divers, with the same price whether you're diving solo or with a full group. Run by passionate boat builders who love the opportunity to get out on the water, this operation primarily focuses on scientific work, including coral surveys and deep diving research, making tourist charters available when their schedule permits.

While the operator is both a certified scuba instructor and the only person with a US Coast Guard licence to captain the boat, this creates unique logistical considerations for training courses. We recommend bringing as much of your own gear as you can. Although equipment rental is available, it's typically not in the best shape and requires servicing before each trip.

Bookings can often be made with short notice, and they'll arrange pickups from cruise ships or hotels. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks, though there's a bakery near the marina for last-minute provisions.