Category — tourism

2nd ship launch delayed by at least one year
10.29.2008 - Hawaii County

VIDEO

The Hawaii Superferry announced that it is putting its planned Big Island to Oahu service “on hold”, citing the current economic uncertainty. The second ship service was scheduled to begin in early 2009, once it was delivered from Mobile Alabama shipbuilder, Austal USA.

“Hawaii Superferry remains committed to serving the people and business of Hawaii,” said Hawaii Superferry President and CEO Tom Fargo in a press release. “Postponing the introduction of our second ship will defer over $10 million in start-up costs and enable us to maintain our sound financial position. Given today’s economic uncertainties, this decision is both prudent and provides us with additional time to develop this market, while continuing to grow our successful O`ahu and Maui service.”

Fargo went on to say that serving the islands, including the Big Island and Kauai, remains the Superfery’s goal.

The release also stated that the company “will look at short-term opportunities for use of the ship prior to its induction into service in the islands.”