Prime Minister Inspects Aurora V Ferry Repair Works

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 15 July 2026 – Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt last week led a Samoan government delegation that inspected the progress work on the Aurora V Ferry at the Polaris Marine Pty Ltd, Yamba, New South Wales Australia.

So far, the government has paid more than $20m for the vessel that was to have been delivered in 2025 for inter island travel between the Mulifanua/Salelologa strait.

However, when the current Government took office nine months ago, there were safety concerns and following pervious inspections the Government now intends to complete the upgrades to the vessel and sell it to recover the expenses already paid.

The Samoa Ports Authority said during the inspection, the delegation focused on confirming that all repair and modification tasks are being completed according to contractual agreements.

This ensures the vessel will meet both national and international maritime safety standards.

The Prime Minister and delegation received detailed updates on the scope of work, the ongoing repair process, and quality assurance measures.

Also, the delegation sought clear information on the expected timeline for completing repairs to support planning and resource management.

Accompanying the Prime Minister was the Associate Minister for Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Taituave Capt. Valoaga Taatiti Iona; Chairman of the Board of Directors, Samoa Ports Authority (SPA), Papalii Willie Nansen; Chief Executive Officer, Samoa Ports Authority (SPA), Ti’amamana Capt. Foetutasi Fa’amausili; Sea Transport (Seller) Representative, Mr. Kieran Carvill and Sealease Representatives Kain Kemp and Leeann Ball.