The US Coast Guard is investigating how the MV Sili suffered damage during its last trip to Manu’a late last week.
The boat returned to Tutuila Friday morning but apparently needs to go on the slipway.
Lt. Vignette Kalstas said because they are investigating what happened to the vessel in Manu’a, she cannot comment on the damages and what caused them.
A Port Administration official said while the vessel was docked at Faleasao Harbor, strong wave action lifted it and slammed it down hard on the ocean floor.
Initially it was thought that the damage was minor.
The boat was sailing here with passengers from Manu’a when the engine began vibrating strongly.
The Port Administration official said there was concern that either the propellers, or rudder was damaged, and continuous vibrations may damage the shaft of the engine.
The decision was made for the Sili to return and drop off all of the passengers on board while the boat sailed here with just the crew and cargo.
Divers carried out an underwater survey of the boat Saturday however the extent of the damage could not be determined.
The boat is to go on the slipway either this afternoon or tomorrow.
Meanwhile a private boat, the SV Adventure, captained by Steve Miguess will be making a trip to Manu’a this afternoon to deliver cargo for the American Samoa Power Authority.
Captain Miguess says they plan to make two trips a week to Manu’a while the MV Sili is on the slipway.
