The Hawaii Superferry began operations in 2007 by opening a route between Honolulu, Oahu and Kahului, Maui.  The first superferry is a 349-foot catamaran named the “Alakai”.  The Alakai is capable of carrying up to 282 economy cars and over 800 foot passengers.  The superferry is an interesting way to accomplish inter-island travel offering spectacular views and many diversions like on-board restaurants, flat screen TVs, and video game rooms.  The superferry was used by tourists and locals alike.

From the beginning, the superferry was immersed in legal issues stemming from the lack of environmental impact studies.  The concern was that this fast ship could run over marine life and harm it.  There were also concerns around unrestricted transport of vehicles over open water and the possibility of introducing invasive species between islands. 

The superferry was given an exemption by the state of Hawaii and began to operate between Oahu and Maui in 2007.

The Supreme Court has ruled recently that the state exemption of allowing the superferry to operate without proper environmental impact statements is unconstitutional.

On March 17, 2009 management announced it suspend operations.  The company statement reads “While the appeal is not yet final because a judgment on appeal has not been entered, we want to proceed prudently and have decided to cease operations for the present.”  It was then announced that there will be one more round trip on Thursday, March 19^th to enable residents to get their vehicles back home.

At present, it is unclear if the superferry group needs to conduct a new environmental review or if the state of Hawaii and the superferry can use the work that has already been conducted.

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