Could it be possible that an idea that was previously botched beyond belief is seeing a resurgence in popularity? Yes.
For those that have already forgotten, the original contentious Hawaii Superferry began operating without adequate Environmental Impact Reports, which subsequently ended in our ferries being sold and the idea sunk.
Our Thoughts: Who was to blame?
In our opinion, there was blame on all sides, but mostly on those trying to speed it through the process. Those opposed to the Superferry didn’t find out and group early enough to stop the massive waste in tax payer money (both ferries reportedly cost over $180 million.) We think that the majority of Hawaii residents were pro Hawaii Superferry, so long as it didn’t negatively impact our environment (whale collisions, invasive species, outer island vehicle traffic, pollution.) Those most adamant about it’s not running were notably on the island of Kaua’i. And we understand why. If we lived on Kaua’i, the last thing we would want would be masses of new cars coming from the other islands on a daily basis. Many people move to Kaua’i to get away from crowds and traffic.
But for those of us looking to visit family on other islands without having to rent a car, buy expensive airline tickets, and limit what we bring, the idea of a safe, environmentally-friendly Hawaii Superferry was (and is) appealing.
According to the Star-Advertiser/Hawaii News Now – Hawaii Poll, 87% of voters think Hawaii needs an inter-island system, 11% said no, 2% said they weren’t sure. We wonder if any polls were done when the original Superferry was shut down.
Why the renewed interest in the Hawaii Superferry?
Superferry news has been a hot topic lately. 3 months ago Mufi Hannemann announced they wanted to bring the Superferry back, and on Monday a town hall meeting was brought together by 2 mariners’ unions. They discussed possibilities and very real potential set backs.
Some of the positives:
- More jobs
- Economic boost
- Alternatives to flight
- Decreased cost in shipping cars and other large items
Some of the negatives:
- More pollution
- Invasive species between islands unregulated
- High speeds that could result in whale impacts
- Increased traffic around harbors and on islands with inadequate roads for masses
- Extremely high cost and potentially another lost cause (more wasted money)
Our Final Thoughts:
Personally, we think it could work if it was privately funded (no tax dollars involved), and environmental impact was at a minimum. Those concerned about a detrimental impact to the environment need to take into account the countless Matson barges that seem to be grandfathered into their current abilities. If those that want the Hawaii Superferry back could help enact stricter environmental policies that would blanket all vessels in and out of Hawaii, this could be a positive move for our environment. On that note, maybe Monsanto will pack their bags and leave voluntarily. We can dream.
Ferry only people. No cars or trucks.
Yes, to be able to travel inter island (with vehicles) and mingle/ meet others who live locally provides a stronger community. This also allows us to spend more money on other islands boosting economy.
Yes, it is a wonderful idea! I hope it becomes a reality soon!
Yes,Yes and Yes……..
Loved the Super ferry. Please bring it back. It was an amazing adventure. We would travel much more if it came back. Best between Big Island and Maui. Loved that our could bring your car.
YES!!! If done responsibly and respectfully to the environment, this would be a tremendous opportunity for inter-island travel. Currently the cost of inter-island flights are prohibitive for our family to visit family on other islands during our frequent visits to the islands.
Yes please… as a visitor we would love to be able to explore other islands we have not yet visited before we commit to a vacation… We would be ok with non-vehicle ferries…
Love the idea that Maui stores would have competition from Oahu stores and their falsely inflated prices would have to come down or they will lose their businesses.
Yes, yes, it was a wonderful voyage which opened up unknown vistas and friendships in Maui for me.
Matson has had so many Environmental degradations with the most recent spill only weeks ago.
I believe that the Superferry was less Environmentally polluting and safer for humans and whales.
As a former Marine Mammal Published Researcher, it is my opinion that the pollution continuing to be done
By Matson must be stopped! This does more harm to whales and dolphins than any ferry anywhere in the world
Could do. The only economy to be injured by the Superferry would be Matson’s.