The MV Manu’atele is scheduled to arrive from Honolulu where it was undergoing major repairs, this Saturday.
The government boat left Hawaii last Thursday after undergoing a check of the repairs carried out at the Marisco Shipyard.
Director of Port Administration, Taimalelagi Dr Claire Poumele said that Captain Taulafoga and his 8 member crew had to be isolated for 6 days and received their covid-19 tests before they left.
All were clear of coronavirus.
She said the final decision will be up to the Department of Health but she’s hoping that the crew will not have to go into quarantine after they arrive since they have been at sea for more than a week.
The vessel was damaged in January when it rammed into the Ofu dock during strong winds and high surf. It has been in Honolulu since June.
Taimalelagi said the Manu’atele will make its first trip to Manu’a next week.
“People have been wanting to take vehicles and other heavy cargo to Manu’a and they will be happy to learn that the Manu’atele is back.
Piles of cargo for Manu’a has been piling up at the terminal on the inter island dock awaiting shipment to Manu’a.
The MV Pago Pago made a trip yesterday and its supposed to make another one before Christmas.
