Pacific Whale Foundation Launches New Luxury Sailing Catamaran

PWF Ocean Spirit. Photo courtesy Pacific Whale Foundation.

By Maui Now Staff

A blessing ceremony was held for the Pacific Whale Foundation’s newest vessel, the Ocean Spirit on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014.

The luxury sailing catamaran arrived in Lahaina last week and will be used for dolphin and whale watches, snorkeling, sunset cruises, and private charters.

The vessel was crafted in St. Croix by Gold Coast Yachts, and made an estimated 5,900 mile journey to the Hawaiian Islands in just 42 days.

PWF representatives say the vessel features an onboard barbecue, water slide, three swim ladders, a full bar, teak dining tables and flooring, a surround sound system, and the latest in navigational and sailing technology.

Captain John Patti and Kahu Lyons-Naone participate in the blessing of the PWF’s Ocean Spirit vessel. Photo courtesy Pacific Whale Foundation.

According to the PWF, the eco-friendly vessel boasts state of the art sails and rigging backed by a clean-burning, fuel efficient engine and a fiberglass hull.

It is also equipped with US Coast Guard approved whale protection devices to guide whales away from propellers and running gear, according to PWF representatives.

A blessing of the ocean Spirit included participation from Captain John Patti and Kahu Lyons-Naone during a morning ceremony at Māʻalaea Harbor on Maui.

The vessel will conduct four tours each day, leaving out of Lahaina harbor. Tours can be booked online or by calling Pacific Whale Foundation at (800) 942-5311.