Kauai rocks too!

I know Kauai isn't part of the South pacific, but we are a Pacific Island and I'm so proud!

Kauai surfers block the super ferry!

Hundreds of protesters prevent Superferry docking at Kauai

"Hundreds of protesters on Kaua'i are blocking the entry of the Hawaii Superferry's vessel into Nawiliwili Harbor.
The 350-foot Alakai arrived near the mouth of the harbor around 6 p.m. today but was turned back at the request of the Coast Guard due to the large gathering at the harbor, said John Garibaldi, Hawaii Superferry's president and chief executive officer.

About 500 passengers are on board the vessel, which launched its interisland passenger service this morning.

Garibaldi said the company will allow the Coast Guard to "take care of the situation" for safety reasons before it can dock. Garibaldi declined to estimate the number of protesters.

However, an Advertiser reporter at the scene said at least 250 people were on the docks or in the water protesting.

"We're at the mouth of the harbor and went in and at the request of the Coast Guard and we reversed out to maintain a safe situation there," Garibaldi said."

Honolulu Advertiser

The radio station says the SWAT team is on the scene!

I wish I wasn't working today, I'm missing the action. Aloha, Joan

Hi Joan---
I had just read of this new service in the SF Chronicle Travel section today.

It seemed like a good idea, esp. for those locals with cars that wanted to go between the three islands, rather than have to fly and rent a car, etc.

Why is there such a protest? I wasn't aware the Nawiliwili harbor area was near a good surfing spot, but I may be wrong. Also, it will only come in and out once a day each way, so it would disrupt surfing for maybe an hour at those times.

Any pros and cons on this sotry??

E

Hi Elliot, the issue is that they never did an Environmental Impact Study. Many neighbor island folks are opposed. More traffic, possible introduction of invasive species, drugs..... And its more expensive than flying and renting a car. My feeling is that especially since the Kauai channel is so rough, people won't go too often, and the ferry will go away. I got seasick going from Papeete to Moorea (30 min) imagine a 3 hour rough ride. Not for me!