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NEWEST MANU’A VESSEL CHRISTENED — THE “SEGAULA” — NOW IN SERVICE

The people of Manu’a now have an answer to their long-standing ocean transportation woes. The Segaula — a vessel built by Armstrong Marine in Port Angeles, Washington — arrived in the territory on Wednesday and was christened yesterday at the Port in Fagatogo.

 

Head of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa in Fagatogo, Rev. Iasepi Ulu offered the prayer for the brief ceremony that was attended by Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga, Chief Justice Michael Kruse, Manu’a District Governor Misaalefua John Hudson, Harbormaster Silila Patane, Cory Armstrong of Armstrong Marine (the company that built the vessel), members of the local Legislature, cabinet members, and government officials.

 

In his remarks, Governor Lolo said having the Segaula here is definitely a day to reap the hard work and effort put in by many to fulfill the administration’s goal of providing transportation for the people of the Manu’a Islands.

 

He said anything that is planned for the betterment and advancement of the people and government of American Samoa requires teamwork and it is through strong support from all three branches of government and the community that the arrival of the Segaula has become a reality.

 

It was Chief Justice Michael Kruse who was given the honor of cracking the coconut on the bow of the boat — a traditional act signifying the christening of a vessel — and cutting the ribbon.  A tour of the boat followed.

 

According to Cory Armstrong, their company was contacted via the internet about building a boat for Manu’a. He explained that a bid was put in and they were later notified that they had won the contract for the job.

 

Armstrong explained that the Segaula can carry up to 33 passengers with light cargo and three crew members.

 

The Segaula features mercury outboards and can travel up to 35 knots. It is 39 feet by 15 feet and features indoor seating, a refrigerator, bathroom facilities, and air conditioning.

 

The vessel is for carrying passengers only, as cargo shipments will continue to be transported via the MV Sili.

 

Harbormaster Silila Patane announced that the fare to travel via the Segaula will not be the same as the one being charged by the MV Sili, and it is likely that the fare for the Segaula will be higher.

 

Samoa News understands that Samoa Gases has been contracted to maintain the engines for the new vessel.

 

Manu’a District Governor Misaalefua John Hudson could not hide his excitement about the Segaula’s arrival, saying the vessel is a dream that has become a reality. He said talks about acquiring a vessel for the Manu’a Islands have been ongoing for quite some time and for him, being able to go onboard the Segaula, and touching the vessel, confirms that the vessel is really here and the dream has become a reality.

 

He described the boat as being ‘comfortable’ and praised the speed at which it can travel.

 

According to Misaalefua, a ‘bigger vessel capable of transporting cargo, containers, and cars’ will be constructed before this year is out and it is hopeful that it will be completed and arrive in the territory sometime next year.

 

The Segaula will be traveling between the Manu’a Islands, but will travel back and forth to Tutuila ‘when needed’.