The MV Lady Naomi was sunk into the ocean on Wednesday after serving for 26 years. The vessel now rests at a depth of more than 3,000 meters, about 25 nautical miles north of the coast of Apia.

The decision to retire and sink the MV Lady Naomi was confirmed by Leiataua Capt. Samuel Phineas, Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O.) of the Samoa Shipping Corporation (SSC), in response to inquiries from the Samoa Observer. 

The MV Lady Naomi, a Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) passenger ship, proudly sailed under the flag of Samoa. 

With a length of 46.5 meters and a width of 11.43 meters, it was a significant presence on the waters between Apia and Pago Pago (American Samoa), as well as other neighbouring countries on chartered trips.

"The MV Lady Naomi has done an outstanding job over the years, transporting cargo and passengers to various regional destinations, particularly between Apia and Pago Pago," Leiataua said. 

Throughout its 26 years of operation, the vessel never encountered an accident that endangered the lives of crew or passengers. The vessel's final voyage to American Samoa took place in January 2023, carrying 1,350 passengers without any issues.

In 2021, the construction of a new vessel, the MV Lady Samoa IV commenced. 

This new ship, designed to replace the aging MV Lady Naomi, began service in November 2022. With the arrival of MV Lady Samoa IV, the MV Lady Naomi's retirement was imminent.

An extensive inspection by the Ministry of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure (MWTI), the Parliamentary Committee, Dover Marine Insurance, and engineers from Lloyds Classification revealed that the MV Lady Naomi was no longer in a condition fit for safe operation. 

The inspectors advised that the vessel should be retired promptly to prevent any potential accidents.

Upon receiving the inspection reports, the S.S.C. Board of Directors deliberated and decided to end the MV Lady Naomi's service for safety reasons. The Cabinet endorsed the decision to dispose of the vessel, acknowledging that it was no longer suitable for any form of business use. 

Before sinking the ship, S.S.C. removed any useful parts and equipment. Some of these parts were donated to the Maritime School to assist with training, while others were repurposed for use on remaining vessels within the corporation.

The disposal process was planned to comply with environmental regulations set by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.) and the M.W.T.I. 

Dangerous parts that could impact marine life were carefully removed to ensure a safe and responsible sinking.

Videos of the MV Lady Naomi's final journey to the deep ocean have been widely shared online by Samoans both near and far, expressing sadness and heartfelt appreciation. 

The vessel's disposal stirred emotions across the community, as many remember the ship as a reliable means of transport and a symbol of connection between Samoa and its neighbours.

One particularly poignant memory shared by a community member was of a family reunion made possible by the MV Lady Naomi. "Our family from Pago Pago was able to join us in Apia for the holidays because of this ship. It brought us together, and for that, we are forever grateful."