The reliability of our service to Wallis & Futuna has been affected lately by strains beyond our control but also by technical issues experienced by the Southern Moana; moreover the volumes carried by our companies have been mechanically increased following the rationalisation of our services.

Various commercial and operational decisions have already been made to lessen the negative consequences of these problems (modification of the rotations amongst other things).

However we now wish to go the extra mile and we have made the decision to introduce a new vessel in order to replace the Southern Moana.

From voyage 143, the Southern Pasifika will replace the Southern Moana. The Southern Pasifika (ex Calédonie Express) has been operated by our companies for more than two years on two different trades and proved to be an example of reliability. This very recent ship was built in 2003. Her deadweight of 6030 tons and her nominal capacity of 510 teus will give us access to more space. This vessel is equipped with 2×45T canes and her service speed is 14.5 knots.

The Southern Pasifika will start her rotation 143 in Auckland on 20 August.

The Southern Moana will terminate her voyage 142 in Futuna on 15 August. Then she will sail towards Melbourne where she will replace the Southern Cross; the latter will be redelivered to her Owners by the end of August.

A vessel change will not sort all difficulties inherent in servicing Wallis & Futuna, the port infrastructures not being adapted for our needs. However this change will contribute to make our service and frequency more reliable; moreover it looks like the project of modernizing port infrastructures has now entered an active phase.

We thank you for your trust and will do our utmost to offer you a quality service.

Yours faithfully

Sofrana Unilines NZ Ltd