 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 increased crime, 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. Unfortunately the local fish cannery is a major presence in the harbour. 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. Recent reports from cruisers (July 2008) state that Pago Pago is populated by warm, friendly people who are hard working, devout family centered people.
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
*
*Indicates a port of entry.
|
Related ReportsChanges in Pago Pago (01 Jun 2009) Swains Island – Tokelau Group (27 Nov 2008) Pacific - List of Radio Nets (18 Oct 2008) Cruising Notes for US Samoa (01 Sep 2008) Pleased not to have by-passed American Samoa (08 Aug 2008) American Samoa – A Positive Review (07 Aug 2008) Tide Information In South Pacific (17 Oct 2007) 25th Anniversary of Moon Handbooks South Pacific (24 Jun 2004) Related NewsEl Niño conditions are likely to continue into early 2007 (14 Nov 2006) Cyclone Heta Devastates South Pacific Island of Niue (12 Jan 2004)
|