Scuba Diving Companies Providing Scuba Tours and Lessons in American Samoa
Here's something that might surprise you: despite being home to some of the most stunning marine parks in the Pacific, including the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, and absolutely sensational coral reef snorkelling, American Samoa LINK#TT038 has just one dive operator.
We know, it sounds almost impossible given the underwater wonders waiting beneath the surface.
This means you've got two choices if you're dreaming of exploring the depths. You can either plan well in advance with the island's sole dive operator (trust us, they're in high demand for good reason), or you can bring your own gear and dive independently.
From what we've experienced, both options have their perks, and we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your underwater adventure in this comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents
5 Quick Tips for Diving in American Samoa
What Scuba Diving Operators and Dive Shops are Available in Pago Pago and American Samoa?
Pago Pago Marine Charters
If you're looking to explore American Samoa's underwater world, needless to say, Pago Pago Marine Charters is your go-to operator based right out of Pago Pago Harbor. Their professional approach and extensive experience in the American Samoa waters is exactly what you want from a scuba trip in such a remote part of the planet.
Where They'll Take You Diving
You'll love the variety of dive sites available through Pago Pago Marine Charters. The National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa is just one of their spectacular destinations.
From what we've experienced, there are incredible diving opportunities around the main island of Tutuila LINK#D006, as well as the remote Manu'a Islands LINK#D012, and even to the hardly-explored Swains Island and the pristine Rose Atoll LINK#D014.
There's more to unpack when it comes to dive sites in AS., so check out The Best Scuba Diving in American Samoa: Top 10 Places to Scuba Dive LINK#TTD097 to "dive" deeper.
Pago Pago Marine Charter's Boats and Diving Experience
Here's what makes Pago Pago Marine Charters special: their boats are the only privately owned commercial vessels capable of making those long journeys to Swains and Rose.
Their captains and dive instructors are fully certified and incredibly helpful, even if you're an experienced diver. We've found their expertise invaluable during our visits.
They've got everything you need, including cylinder refill and rental services, tanks, weight belts and even a hyperbaric chamber for safety. (Yes, you read that correctly.)
Their two vessels offer different experiences:
The Double Hooked is a 15 m (50 ft) catamaran powered by two 450hp Caterpillar diesels. She'll cruise at 21 knots with a top speed of 31 knots.
If you want to do an overnighter, accommodation includes four bedrooms sleeping six people, plus additional sleeping space for four more. There's a restroom with a shower onboard.
Safety is clearly a priority with an abundance of equipment, including a motor-powered life raft, satellite phone, GPS and life vests for adults and children.
The Double Barrel is a 12 m (39 ft) power catamaran powered by two Mercury Verado 300hp outboards. She's faster, with a cruise speed of 23 knots and top speed of 36 knots.
It has all your expected helm features. There's also a large cabin, double room and restroom onboard.
Her low deck design and comprehensive safety equipment make her an excellent diving platform.
Our Tip: Book Well in Advance
It's important to note that Pago Pago Marine Charters offers much more than just scuba diving – they also provide game fishing, whale watching and sightseeing tours, as listed in the 10 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in American Samoa LINK#TTD138.
They're also busy with scientific expeditions, underwater welding, construction and salvage work.
All in all, we strongly recommend booking well in advance to secure your spot!
More About Dive Shops and Operators in American Samoa
That's it for our guide to the best dive shops, operators and tours in American Samoa. More dive operators will be added to the list when they become available. In the meantime, how about planning the rest of your epic excursion to paradise?
- The Best Scuba Diving in American Samoa: Top 10 Places to Scuba Dive LINK#TTD097
- The Best Snorkelling in American Samoa: Top 10 Places to Snorkel LINK#TTD099
- 10 Best Snorkelling Tours in American Samoa LINK#TTD101
Finally, for a variety of experiences in American Samoa, don't miss the 101 Best Things to Do in American Samoa: The Ultimate List LINK#TTD066


