AZAMARA ONWARD’S MAIDEN VOYAGE

On January 28th, American Samoa welcomed the Azamara Onward on its maiden voyage to our shores. This marks a significant moment for the local tourism industry, as the arrival of this ship signals the continued growth of cruise tourism to the islands.

To commemorate the occasion, the Nu'uuli Methodist Youth presented a cultural performance, providing a warm and authentic welcome to the ship’s passengers.

The successful docking of the Azamara Onward was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the American Samoa Port Administration, Swire Shipping, the Harbor Stevedore Agents of Pago Pago, our dedicated cruise ship vendors, and the unwavering support of the local community.

A highlight of the ship's arrival was a plaque exchange ceremony between First Lady Lois Phillips-Pula and Captain Gianmario Sanguineti, celebrating the first visit of the Azamara Onward to Pago Pago. This exchange marks a positive milestone in the ongoing relationship between American Samoa and the Azamara line.

The name "Azamara" combines the words "az" (blue) and "mar" (sea), symbolizing vast horizons and peaceful waters—values that align closely with the natural beauty of American Samoa. The name is also inspired by the star Acamar, historically recognized for its connection to exploration, making the ship a fitting vessel for visiting our islands.

As the cruise season continues, we look forward to further opportunities to showcase American Samoa’s unique offerings to an international audience.