Hawaii Superferry Departs for Mobile Alabama

By Wendy Osher

The Hawaii Superferry announced the departure of the vessel from island waters over the weekend.

The move comes following a Hawaii Supreme court ruling that invalidated a law that had allowed the company to operate while an environmental impact statement was being conducted.  The interisland ferry laid off nearly 200 workers and shut down its operations after the March 16 ruling.

Maui resident Dorothy "Dot" Buck looks on as the Hawaii Superferry made it's last scheduled departure from Kahului Harbor on March 19, 2009. Photo by Wendy Osher.

In a statement, company officials said they do not have a business opportunity in Hawaii for the foreseeable future, and are positioning the vessel for future employment.  The company statement further said, “Our customers require and deserve regular, reliable service. Plus, the ship has to be put to work.”

According to the statement, the “Hawaii Superferry would like to thank the multitude of local citizens and businesses that have supported the company, and will continue to work with all concerned to set the conditions to allow the future operation of this wonderful ship in Hawaii.”

The 7,600-mile journey from Hawaii through the Panama Canal and on to Mobile, Alabama is expected to take three weeks.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)