McKay Advances Samoa’s First Low-Carbon Maritime Project with Initial Sea Trials

Constructed by McKay in collaboration with Circa Marine Limited in Whangārei, the E-Alia is the first of five vessels that will be delivered to Samoa as part of the Japan-funded Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) initiative, a key component of the $37 million (USD) Pacific Green Transformation initiative implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The harbour trials showcased the vessels’ smooth handling, with successful tests of docking, reversing, tight turns, and steering response, demonstrating their readiness for safe passenger and cargo transfers. The sea trials simulated a full day of operation, including five round trips between Manono, where four vessels will operate, and Upolu, covering journeys of up to 7 nautical miles.

National Marine Manager at McKay, Ben Haselden, said the results from this day far exceeded expectations.

“It’s pleasing to know that what we conceptualised and have since produced is a modern, reliable, clean and safe style of vessel that will benefit not only the communities they will operate, but the pristine ecosystems that Samoa is world famous for.”

With New Zealand trials complete, vessel one will be shipped to Samoa for local sea trials in her operating environment, incorporating the latest findings to inform the next stage of production for the remaining four vessels in construction. McKay has worked closely with naval architects at LOMOcean Limited to ensure that boats two to five could be produced as kitsets and shipped in containers, making transport and assembly in Samoa straightforward.

Ashley Owen, Project Manager at McKay, highlights the value of partnering with UNDP on a project that benefits Samoan communities.

“These boats, designed for the remote environments of the Pacific, will strengthen vital connections by linking families and communities across the region. This project not only advances marine utilisation of renewable technology but also supports Pacific peoples by enabling them to stay connected.”

As part of the contract, McKay will also deliver training for both boat operators and maintainers and will provide maintenance support for two years in partnership with Henry Silva Shipyard. This directly invests project funds in Samoa, building local skills and ensuring long-term, locally managed vessel upkeep.

Mark McGinley, Executive General Manager Technology said “McKay, as a family owned business, retains core family values in the way it operates by aiming to enrich the lives of our staff and the communities within which we operate. This project brings together marine and renewable energy, which are two areas McKay is passionate about. By applying our technical expertise to these areas and taking a holistic approach, we are proud of the way this project will support the local Samoan economy, increase local skills and deliver a sustainable marine transport solution.”

McKay is proud to have completed design, procurement, fabrication, build, and local sea trials in under six months, from contract signing on 26th February, to the vessel’s departure for Samoa.

This milestone boosts McKay’s capacity to deliver marine renewable solutions across New Zealand and the Pacific. Launching in November 2025, Project E-Alia sets a new benchmark for sustainable transport in the region.

Watch the McKay Sea Trial video here.