Those taking private vehicles to Manu’a on the MV Manuatele are now paying $200 for one way passage of their vehicle.
The previous charge was $135 .
A December 13 notice from the Director of Port Administration Taimalelagi Dr. Claire Poumele concerning the increase said, “The high demand for more service delivery across the board and most importantly the frequent travel of passengers has created additional trips for Manu’a.
“This has made it necessary to thoroughly review this fee and increase accordingly.”
During public hearings on the administration bill to increase port and wharfage charges, lawmakers had asked the director if the fee hikes would affect services for Manu’a.
Taimalelagi responded at a Senate hearing that services to Manu’a would not be affected.
The MV Manu’atele was one of the projects funded with proceeds of the bond sale and it was intended to generate revenues.
However Port Administration has had mixed results charging fares and freight for passengers and cargo using the vessel.
