 American Samoa : Profile
The two neighbouring Samoas are very different from each other, American Samoa being a US Territory, while Western Samoa is an independent state. American Samoa comprises all the Samoan islands east of the 171° parallel, that is the main island of Tutuila, as well as Aunuu, the Manua Group, Rose Island, and Swains Island. This US outpost in the South Seas has been best described as the place sailors love to hate. The features that attract most cruising boats to American Samoa, such as US goods, excellent provisioning and good communications, are those which have contributed to its seamier side. The Samoans have embraced the American way of life wholeheartedly, which has led to a high standard of living compared to their neighbours, but also to high criminality especially in the capital Pago Pago. It is Pago Pago which attracts most cruising sailors, either to reprovision in its well-stocked supermarkets, or to spend the cyclone season in this scenically beautiful and well protected harbour, which unfortunately has been virtually destroyed by the local fish cannery, which fills the water with effluent and the air with revolting odours. Apart from the fact that most things American are available and therefore provisioning is better than in neighbouring countries, facilities for yachts in Pago Pago are quite limited. Until there is a marked improvement in yachting facilities, Pago Pago is best regarded as a convenient reprovisioning stop and nothing more.
There is very heavy rainfall all year, especially from December to April, which is the cyclone season. The average temperatures are 24-31°C (75-87°F). May to November are the trade wind months and are less humid.
Pago Pago
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*Indicates a port of entry.
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