Savai'i Ferry Terminal (Mulifanua Wharf)
Aiga-i-le-Tai
Mulifanua Wharf serves as the principal ferry terminal on the north-western tip of Upolu island, facilitating vehicle and passenger transport across the Apolima Strait to Savai'i island. Operated by the Samoa Shipping Corporation, the ferry service runs daily, typically every two hours during daytime, with a crossing duration of approximately 90 minutes. The terminal is conveniently located five minutes west of Faleolo International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. Visitors can find several small shops offering snacks, and transportation options such as buses and taxis are readily available for arrivals and departures. Beyond its transportation role, Mulifanua is archaeologically significant due to the discovery of a submerged Lapita site in 1973, where thousands of pottery sherds and Lapita adzes dating back around 3,000 years were uncovered, marking it as the only site in Samoa with decorated Lapita ceramics. The terminal area also hosted sailing and outrigger canoeing events during the 2007 South Pacific Games, highlighting its cultural and sporting importance.
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Tip: The best time to visit Mulifanua Ferry Terminal is during daylight hours when ferry services run frequently, approximately every two hours. It is advisable to arrive early to secure tickets and enjoy the convenience of nearby snack shops and transport options. Purchasing tickets in advance may help avoid wait times during busy periods. Travelers should also consider coordinating their ferry schedule with flight times at nearby Faleolo International Airport for seamless connections.
Interesting facts
- •The Mulifanua site is the only location in Samoa where decorated Lapita pottery sherds have been found.
- •Over 4,200 pottery sherds and two Lapita type adzes were recovered from the submerged archaeological site.
- •The ferry crossing between Mulifanua and Salelologa takes about 90 minutes and operates seven days a week.
- •Mulifanua Wharf is located just five minutes west of Samoa's main international airport, Faleolo International Airport.
- •The 2007 South Pacific Games included sailing and va'a events hosted at the Mulifanua area.
History
The Mulifanua Ferry Terminal area holds archaeological importance due to the 1973 discovery of a submerged Lapita site, revealing artifacts dating back about 3,000 years.
This site is unique in Samoa for containing decorated Lapita pottery sherds, shedding light on early Polynesian culture.
In modern times, the terminal has developed as the main inter-island ferry hub, operated by the Samoa Shipping Corporation, facilitating vital transport links between Upolu and Savai'i islands.
The area also gained sporting recognition when it hosted events during the 2007 South Pacific Games.