Shipping services between Upolu and Savai’i have been restored after a two-day cancellation.

But the disruption – brought on by the bad weather midweek – led to people missing work and the cancellation of their flights out of the country.

Affected passengers and couple, Maepa Mauto and Televise Mauto, told the Samoa Observer at the Mulifanua wharf recently that they are just grateful that the service has been restored. They were one of many passengers who were affected by the shipping service’s cancellation. 

“We were really looking forward to our trip, but when the ferries were cancelled, we missed our flight out to New Zealand,” Maepa said.

Like everyone else, they stayed put until further notice from the Samoa Shipping Corporation. 

Maepa explained that they returned to their home and made calls to the Samoa Airlines. 

“We missed our flight and normally we would have to repay our fair to book for tomorrow (today). But thankfully the airline really understood when we told them our situation because we were not the only ones,” Mrs Mauto stated.

Samoa Airways rescheduled their flight for last night without forcing them to pay a penalty fee. 

“We understand that Samoa Shipping Corporation was doing their job to put passenger’s safety first. We are just glad to be able to leave tonight,” Maepa added. 

Another passenger from Savai’i, Toetu Sione from Taga, said he wasn’t able to attend work due to the cancellation, and only regrets losing his leave days.

“Now I have used my work leaves that I saved for special occasions,” he said. 

Samoa Shipping have advised the public that the service operated by MV Lady Naomi – which was cancelled Thursday January 7 between Upolu and Pago Pago – will resume next Thursday 14, February.