Government looks to recover $20m spent on Catamaran vessel

By Esther Yvonne Atonio/

Apia, SAMOA – 13 April 2026: The Government is considering ways to recover the $20m tala already paid for the upgrade of the Catamaran double hull vessel negotiated by the previous FAST Cabinet intended for travel between Savaii and Upolu islands.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt explained that the vessel cost $2 million but there were various additions for the vessels’ upgrade negotiated by the previous government such as seating for the passengers and the vehicles space.

He also explained that since his government took office last September, various inspections have been made of the vessel in Australia where it is undergoing upgrade work.

From those inspections by the Ministry of Works where shipping portfolio falls under, as well as the Ministry of Finance, the general feeling was that the vessel was not safe for the inter-island strait between Mulifanua and Salelologa due to its two hulled design.

He said the Government is now looking at various options such as leasing the vessel to an overseas operator when it is completed or selling it to recover the money already spent on the vessel.

“I advised cabinet to have the vessel completed and then see how we can recover the money already paid for it,” La’auli said.

The Prime Minister expressed concern about how Samoa Ports Authority (SPA) was drawn into the business of buying an inter-island passenger boat when its core function was to manage the ports and wharves.

The vessel now in question was bought using Samoa Ports Authority funds for lease to Samoa Shipping Corporation to operate.

The proposition was reportedly opposed by senior officials of the Samoa Shipping Corporation and will be under an Audit investigation.