Hawaii Superferry’s Launch off to a Sinking Start
Just about everyday this week, the Hawaii Superferry has been in the news. Monday’s first voyage to Kauai was met with delays as people paddled or swam out to meet the ferry as it entered Nawiliwili Harbor. The intent was to create a blockade of people and prevent the Superferry from docking in the harbor. Well, the people won and ultimately the ferry sailed back to Honolulu after many hours in limbo. The Coastguard even got involved with this one.
Just what is the deal? Local environmental groups have sued the state to require an environmental impact statement (EIS) that was previously deemed not necessary by the Hawaii Department of Transportation (DOT). In an earlier article, the Honolulu Advertiser reported that the Hawaii Superferry must comply with conducting a reduced version of the EIS, but that they could continue business as usual. So they did. The Superferry set sail on Monday to Kauai only to be met by aggravated environmental supporters. The Honolulu Advertiser published a photo of a woman holding a sign that read, “Stupid Ferry Stupid Riders” (this woman was on Maui – another sail stop).
As you can guess, the Hawaii Superferry has ceased operations and meetings have ensued to discuss future island activities.
From the environmentalist’s point of the view, some of the top concerns are:
1. Ferry would endanger humpback whales and other marine species
2. Risk the spread of invasive species
3. Impede recreational use of the harbor
4. Harm fishing
5. Harm other Native Hawaiian subsistence resources as people bring their own vehicles onto the islands
On top of that, the Hawaii Superferry’s business actions have been questioned. The $5 fares and setting sail ahead of time was viewed as an act of bad faith and the implication was that they should have waited until the assessment was completed.
You know after reading all of this, I’m horrified at the responses being given. I understand why island locals are feeling the way they do, but at the same time, couldn’t they have done it another way? The idea of someone diving in the water to be a part of a human blockade is scary to see the lengths that people will go to get their point across. At the same time, shouldn’t the Hawaii Superferry have foreseen potential issues and taken the proper precautions as an act of good faith?
Meanwhile this is all being rectified in court and the rest of us are stuck in the middle awaiting the final outcome. What do you think about this?
Hawaii superferry, environmental impact statement, Hawaii Department of Transportation, Kauai, Nawiliwili Harbor, Honolulu Advertiser
October 8th, 2007 at 9:04 pm
[...] couple of months ago we started talking about the mess that the Hawaii Superferry is in. The boat is still sitting idle in the Honolulu Harbor. I must say, that whenever I pass by, it [...]
October 11th, 2007 at 12:27 pm
[...] “Let’s get ready to rumble!!!!” From the start of the year, more talk regarding the Hawaii Superferry need to have an EIS done is met with anti-Superferry slogans and red shirts. State lawmakers kill a bill that would force an environmental review. In the “11th” hour, the environmental impact statement is gaining more support. The inter-island vessel is tested and passes with flying colors. In June of this year, the Hawaii Superferry arrived on O’ahu and becomes available for booking. The Hawaii Superferry sets sail for Kauai and the rest is history. It hasn’t sailed since. [...]