The Complete Guide to Boat Transfers in Pago, Tutuila and the Manu'a Islands
Dreaming of island hopping in America's final frontier? American Samoa's boat transfers, locally known as alia boats, are essentially water taxis that'll whisk you away to some seriously stunning spots.
These charming double-hulled vessels give you the perfect opportunity to escape the mainland for a day trip to the captivating island of Aunu'u, where you'll discover an intriguing quicksand lake and gorgeous marine sanctuary.
Alternatively, alia boats offer passage between the remote Manu'a Islands of Ofu-Olosega and Ta'ū – perfect for those seeking true off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Ready to plan your island-hopping adventure? This complete guide covers everything you need to know about water taxis in Pago Pago and American Samoa, including which islands to visit, costs and insider tips to make the most of your journey.
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5 Tips for Boat Transport in American Samoa
- Always have a backup plan. Weather in the Pacific can be unpredictable, and rough seas might cancel boat services for several days at a time. We recommend considering inter-island flights as an alternative or simply embracing the island pace and extending your stay a bit longer.
- Prepare for early morning departures. Alia boat trips typically depart in the morning, with some services leaving Ofu as early as 6 am. Set that alarm clock and grab a coffee – you'll want to be ready to go when the captain is.
- Forget about advance bookings. From our experience, alia boats are nearly impossible to book ahead of time. Your best bet is asking your accommodation host to make a phone call on your behalf – everyone knows everyone on these tight-knit islands.
- Bring cash for your fare. Card machines aren't exactly standard equipment on traditional boats, so make sure you've got some US Dollars LINK#TT009 ready to pay your skipper.
- Strike up a conversation with the crew. We've found that skippers and their deckhands are usually delighted to share stories about the Manu'a Islands if you show genuine interest. You'll learn fascinating local legends and get insider knowledge about the sights you're passing.
Alia Boat Transfers to Aunu'u Island
The Most Popular Boat Trip in American Samoa
Getting to Aunu'u Island is half the adventure where charming boat transfers will take you there.
How to Take the Boat to Aunu'u Island
You'll depart from 'Au'asi Harbor, which is easy to spot along the main road on the east side of Tutuila (about 35 minutes' drive from Pago Pago). There's a lovely sheltered fale where you can wait comfortably before your journey begins.
The boats run on demand, so you'll usually find a few locals heading over as well. Simply pay the skipper cash for the 10-15 minute journey across to Aunu'u Harbor – it's wonderfully straightforward.
How to Take the Boat From Aunu'u to Tutuila
When you're ready to return, you have two options. Either arrange a pickup time with your skipper before you leave, or simply head to Aunu'u Harbor when you're ready to go and someone will call the skipper for you (it's a beautifully tight-knit community where everyone looks out for each other).
How Much Does the Aunu'u Alia Boat Cost?
The cost is US$5-$10 one way, with half price for children. Cash only, so come prepared.
We personally recommend arriving early at the harbour so you'll have the full day to explore this incredible island. For everything you need to know about making the most of your visit, check out The Complete Guide to Aunu'u LINK#D008.
Alia Boat Transfers Between Ofu and Ta'ū
Getting between these two remote islands requires a bit of planning, but the journey itself is part of the adventure. The traditional alia boats that connect Ofu and Ta'ū offer more than just transport; they're your gateway to experiencing authentic Samoan island life.
Ofu and Ta'ū Alia Boats: Cost and Route
The boat transfer costs US$300 each way (cash only), regardless of which direction you're travelling. Most boats start their journey from Ofu, with the usual pickup point being Faleasao Harbor—though you'll be informed if they're departing from Ta'ū Harbor instead.
It's crucial to know that there are no transport services on either island. You'll need to arrange pickup with your accommodation host when you arrive, and we strongly recommend doing this well in advance. Check out accommodations in our guide, Where to Stay in Ofu, Olosega & Ta'ū (Manu'a Islands): 10 Best Accommodations.
How to Book an Alia Boat
The best way to book the alia boats is through locals once you're on the island; simply ask your accommodation host to call the alia boat operator they work with most closely.
Weather can cancel services for several days, so build some flexibility into your travel plans. Alternative transport options are listed in Manu'a Islands Transport Guide: 10 Ways to Get to (& Around) the Manu'a Islands LINK#D011.
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Who Runs the Alia Boats in the Manu'a Islands?
Clint and another operator run the alia boats, though the crew changes regularly. Clint's son, Sitaua, works as a deckhand and also offers guided walks to Mt Tumu if you're interested in exploring on foot.
What to Expect on the Boat Transfers in the Manu'a Islands
Boats typically leave Ofu between 6 and 7 am, picking up passengers around Faleasao by 7 or 8 am. Not only is this typically the calmest time of the day for boat travel, but the alia boat operators also have day jobs to get to.
Your bags will be stored safely at the front of the boat under cover, and life jackets are provided (also kept at the front). The crew usually puts out fishing lines during the journey—making the most of every trip, as we've seen for ourselves.
What we love about these transfers is how the skippers and deckhands eagerly share the legends of the islands. If you show interest, they'll often allow for sightseeing of the awesome rock archways around Nu'usilaelae and Nu'utele Islands.
More About Boat Transport in American Samoa
That’s it for our complete guide to alia boats and boat transfers in American Samoa! Check out alternative boat transport methods in the guides below:
- American Samoa Ferry Guide: How to Use the Ferry for Interisland Travel in American Samoa
- 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in American Samoa LINK#TTD138
- Manu'a Islands Transport Guide: 10 Ways to Get to (& Around) the Manu'a Islands LINK#D011
Finally, plan the rest of your excursion to the outer islands using The Complete Travel Guide to the Manu'a Islands LINK#D012 and The Complete Guide to Aunu'u LINK#D008.
