Samoa
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==Charts== | ==Charts== | ||
| - | ; | + | ; [http://www.linz.govt.nz/hydro Land Information NZ] |
| - | : | + | : NZ 86 -- Samoa Islands (also covers [[American Samoa]]) |
==Special Navigation Notes== | ==Special Navigation Notes== | ||
Revision as of 03:40, 4 August 2014
Samoa Cruising Guide
An online cruising guide for yachts sailing to Samoa.
| Samoa | |
 Map - click for larger view | |
 Flag | |
| Capital: | Apia  13°50′S, 171°45′W
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| Language: | Samoan, English |
| Currency: | Tala (WST) |
| Timezone: | UTC+13 |
| More notes about the country | |
 Latest News
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| Content - news items, etc. | |
Overview
Samoa is a country comprising two main islands, Savai'i and Upolu, as well as several smaller islands (some inhabited, some not). Upolu contains the main city, Apia, and approximately 75% of the population. Savai'i is the larger of the two main islands and offers some exotic island scenery as well as a few sheletered anchorages, notably Asau Bay.
In 1997 the country's name was changed from Western Samoa to Samoa although the name Western Samoa is still used by some people, specifically residents of American Samoa immediately to the east.
In 2009 the country changed the side of the road on which vehicles drive -- Samoans now drive on the left side of the road in line with many other countries in the region (the exception being French Polynesia).
In 2011 Samoa moved from the East to the West side of the intenrational date line, moving forwards one day. This means that it is now on the same side of the date line as Australia and New Zealand, and shares a time zone with Tonga. American Samoa is still on the east side of the date line, in line with the USA and French Polynesia.
Samoa's currency is the Tala, with one tala approximately equal to 50c Australian / US. Prices in tala are indicated with a $ sign in Samoa, meaning that some prices can seem quite high if you equate those with dollars, but are in fact quite cheap. Expect to pay between 4 and 6 tala for a beer in most bars, and 15 tala is considered a reasonable price for a cafe meal. Locally grown produce can be quite cheap, for example 5 tala will buy a few coconuts or a bunch of bananas.
Samoans are a welcoming people and will go out of their way to help visitors.
Cruising the region
Despite limited facilities in some places, even compared to other South Pacific nations, it is well worth visiting Samoa. A cruising route through the northern or southern Cook Islands can easily accomodate Samoa as a stop on the way to Fiji or even Tonga, or onwards to Vanuatu.
There is a marina in Apia with some facilities and several anchorages on the northern side of each of the main islands.
After clearing in to Apia, you need to obtain a cruising permit is required to visit any other anchorages in Samoa. To obtain this:
- Write a letter requesting the permit, stating the name of the vessel, crew names and nationalities, and the vessel registration details. Also state the harbours which you wish to visit and also the duration of your stay in Samoa.
- Take a copy of this letter along with your passports and a copy of the registration papers.
- Visit Elisaia Galulolo, at the Prime Ministers office on the 4th floor of the government building in central Apia. To enter the building use the lifts which are in the car park. Take the lift to the 4th floor and ask at the reception desk for Elisaia by name.
The permit is issued on the spot, and there is no charge for issuing the permit.
Climate & Weather
Submit the climate details and sources of weather forecasting here.
Charts
- Land Information NZ
- NZ 86 -- Samoa Islands (also covers American Samoa)
See Apia
Local Radio Nets
Also see: World Cruiser's Nets
There are no radio nets specific to Samoa. The harbour master in Apia harbour maintains a regular if not constant listening watch on VHF 16.
Arrival/Departure procedures
Apia is the only port of entry or departure. See under Apia.
Immigration & Customs
See Apia.
Visas
A 60 day visa is offered to all visitors. This can only be extended in special circumstances.
Health & Security
See Apia.
Ports & Anchorages
Islands
Main Islands
- Upolu
- Savai'i
Cruiser's Friends
Submit details/contacts of cruiser's "friends" that can be contacted in advance or on arrival - who can offer information and assistance to our cruising "family".
References & Publications
- Visit the tourist information office in central Apia and collect a copy of the Jasons.com guides. There is a small booklet covering various attractions around the island and a larger fold-out pamphlet with maps of both islands as well as central Apia. Both publications are free.
Links to Forum Discussions
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)
External Links
- Samoa on wikipedia.
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Names: Delatbabel |
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| | HOMEPAGE | Wiki Contents | South Pacific | Samoa |
