Samoa’s strategic location in Central South Pacific Ocean make ocean freight an important mode of transport for international logistics.
Although it is a small island, you can use Samoa’s 7 ports for your international trade and logistics. But more importantly, it is critical to learn about each ports cargo handling capability and location.
Let’s dive right in:
1. Port of Apia
It is the largest port in Samoa situated in Apia which is the capital city of Samoa on Upolu Island in the north coast providing easy access to the CBD. This port also plays a significant role in transportation, i.e. inter-island ferries and cruise ships.
The port of Apia is equipped with infrastructures that can handle your containers, bulk goods and general cargo. It has terminals that can accommodate and cruise passengers and berths that can handle different types of vessels.
Furthermore, port of Apia is key in importation and exportation of goods such as fuel, machinery; construction material etc.it acts as a popular stop over for cruise ships promoting tourism.
2. Port of Mulifanua
It is a domestic port in Samoa that is located in the western coast in Upolu next to Feleolo International Airport. Through the Port of Mulifanua, you are guaranteed of gateway for inter-island transportation between Upolu Island and Savaii Island.
The port of Mulifanua is facilitated with basic amenities to handle passenger traffic including locals and tourists and also has a ferry terminal that accommodates vehicles and cargo. This port also had docking sites for ferries and small vessels.
3. Port of Salelologa
This is one of the largest ports in the Samoan island. It is located in Salelolonga in the southern tip of Savaii serving a gateway between Savaii and Upolu to facilitate inter Island travel. Its location makes it a convenient access point.
Moreover, it is facilitated with equipment to handle cargo such as agricultural produce, general cargo and vehicles.
The port of Salelologa is also equipped with a ferry terminal for passengers and vehicles and cargo handling facilities for inter-island trade.
Cargo such as agricultural produce, consumer goods and vehicles are handled by this port.
4. Port of Asau
The port of Asau is a vital maritime hub for the region of Samoa. It is located on the island of Savaii.
Furthermore, this port also serves as a gateway between Savaii and Upolu which are the main islands of Samoa in the northwestern coast.
With this port, you will get access to Samoa culture heritage and natural beauty. Furthermore, its strategic location makes it a key component to transportation and infrastructure.
5. Port of Aleipata
In the village of Satitoa is where the port of Aleipata is located. That is, this port is in the eastern coast of Upolu island having a wharf and a slipway.
Previously, the port of Aleipata was damaged by tsunami and later damaged by cyclone Evan.
The port of Aleipata was later rebuilt and re commissioned in the late 2010. But more importantly, you should note that the slipways were later leased to the Samoan shipping corporation.
Currently the port of Aleipata Wharf is not functional for ferry services. However there is plans to use the slipways for other uses.
6. Port of Savaii
The port of Savaii is the largest port in the Samoan island. It is served by two ports Selalologa and Asau. Selalologa is the main port township and serves as an entry point for inter-island ferries. It facilitates passenger, vehicle and cargo transportation.
The port of Asau which is on the northwest coast of Savaii is smaller and primarily used for local fishing and limited cargo operations.
So far, Selalologa remains the primary for most cargo and travelers. Additionally, the port of Asau serves as a crucial hub for local fishing industry and regional marine activities.
7. Lalomalava Port
Lalomalava port is in the village of Lalomalava in the southeast end of Savaii Island in Samoa. The primary port on Savaii is the Selelologa wharf that is 4 kilometers southeast of Lalomalava serving as a main entry and exit point for inter-island ferries. Therefore, there is no specific port infrastructure for Lalomalava
Conclusion
The several ports that are in the Samoan island are serving various economic needs. They are vital for trade, tourism and inter island transportation.
Maintenance efforts have been put in place to support the Samoan economic growth. Collaborations from other countries to fund port developments and enhance Samoan role in the pacific maritime trade.
As your partner in the international trade, Bansar strives to make your shipping from China to Samoa seamless by handling all paperwork for you. If you have any shipment in China, contact us now for seamless logistics.
More resources:
Routes for International Trade – Source: BANSAR
Calculate Freight Shipping Cost – Source: BANSAR
