8 Samoan sailors return home on MSC Magnifica Cruiseliner

By Yvonne Esther Atonio/

Apia, SAMOA – 17 February 2026 – The Samoa Shipping Services has confirmed that 8 Samoan sailors or crew members working onboard the MSC Magnifica Cruiseship are returning home on the ship’s visit to Apia on Thursday this week.

The sailors will be replaced by 8 other Samoan crew members who are embarking a nine-month employment contracts under the MSC flagship.

A statement by SSS today confirmed that 8 Samoan crew members and one crew member from Morocco will be disembarking following the successful completion of their contracts and they will be replaced by eight Samoan crew members, who are embarking to begin nine-month employment contracts under the MSC flagship.

According to SSS, the visit is also a milestone as it will brings 15 Samoan crew members serving in various sectors of the ship.

As the solely licensed crewing agent for Mediterranean Shipping Company Vessels in Samoa, SSS will serve as the official port agent for the vessel during its incoming visit.

Passenger and Crew Information:

• Total Passengers On-board: 2178 including 8 Samoan citizens
• Total Crew On-board: 1006 including 15 Samoan crew members
• Disembarking in Apia: 11 passengers including 3 Samoan citizens

“The Government of Samoa through SSS remains committed to its partnership with MSC, which has provided employment opportunities for Samoan sailors for over 40 years,” the SSS statement said.

Through SSS, the Government continues to recognize and commend the dedication of Samoa crew members on MSC vessels globally, whose professionalism contributes significantly to the national economy and Samoa’s reputation in the international maritime industry.

Members of the public are advised that the Samoa Shipping Services is coordinating with local authorities to ensure a seamless transition for all embarking and disembarking personnel.