HAWAI'I
HAWAI’I
Hawai’i, an island group in the north Pacific Ocean, offers private yacht cruisers an unparalleled adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse marine ecosystems. cruising these islands presents unique challenges that require planning, extensive local knowledge, and respect for both natural and cultural resources.
Challenges for Yachting in Hawai’i
- Remote Location: Hawai’i’s isolation in the Pacific presents logistical challenges, such as fuel and provisioning. Many supplies must be brought in, and some parts may be hard / expensive or will take a longer time to come by.
- Weather Patterns: The islands’ weather is characterized by trade winds, sudden squalls, and hurricane risks during certain times of the year.
- Navigational Hazards: Strong currents, submerged reefs, and rapidly shifting wind conditions can pose serious dangers. The channels between islands are known for being particularly rough.
- Permitting and Regulations: Cruisers must navigate a complex set of rules regarding anchoring, protected areas, and environmental conservation laws.
- Cultural Sensitivity: The islands are home to sacred sites and traditional fishing grounds. Respecting the cultural significance of these areas is crucial.
The Hawaiian Islands
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Oʻahu: The Gathering Place
- Overview: Known for its vibrant city life, famous beaches, and historic sites.
- Routes & Anchorages: Popular stops include Honolulu Harbor and Kane’ohe Bay. Pearl Harbor and Waikīkī are must-visit locations, but mariners need to be mindful of the heavy marine traffic and strict regulations.
- Challenges: Navigating the bustling waters around Honolulu and dealing with frequent afternoon trade winds.
- Local Tips: Best to plan early morning departures to avoid strong afternoon winds.
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Maui: The Valley Isle
- Overview: Maui offers stunning coastlines, the famous Road to Hana, and world-class snorkeling spots like Molokini Crater.
- Routes & Anchorages: Lahaina Harbor and Maʻalaea Bay are key spots, but swells can make anchoring tricky.
- Challenges: The Pailolo Channel between Maui and Moloka’i is notoriously rough, earning its nickname “the crazy fisherman.”
- Local Tips: Be aware of marine protected areas and use caution around the powerful currents.
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Kauaʻi: The Garden Isle
- Overview: Renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, and serene beaches.
- Routes & Anchorages: Hanalei Bay offers a picturesque anchorage. However, weather conditions can change rapidly, and the Nā Pali Coast has limited safe harbor options.
- Challenges: Sudden squalls and remote anchorages require a high level of self-sufficiency.
- Local Tips: Prepare for frequent rainfall and stock up before heading to remote areas.
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Hawaiʻi (Big Island): The Orchid Isle
- Overview: The Big Island is the largest and most diverse, featuring everything from volcanic landscapes to lush rainforests.
- Routes & Anchorages: Kailua-Kona and Hilo Harbor are major stops. The island’s west coast offers calm, sunny conditions, while the east side is more rugged and weather-exposed.
- Challenges: Active volcanic activity can impact water conditions, and unpredictable swells around South Point are notorious.
- Local Tips: Keep an eye on VOG (volcanic smog) conditions that can reduce visibility and air quality.
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Molokaʻi: The Friendly Isle
- Overview: Moloka’i remains a land of unspoiled beauty, with a strong commitment to preserving its Hawaiian culture.
- Routes & Anchorages: Kaunakakai Harbor is a key entry point. The sea cliffs on the north side are among the tallest in the world, but they offer limited anchoring.
- Challenges: The island has strong, gusty trade winds and tricky currents.
- Local Tips: Respect local customs and avoid anchoring in areas designated as traditional fishing grounds.
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Lanaʻi: The Pineapple Isle
- Overview: Known for its secluded beaches and the luxury of its remote setting.
- Routes & Anchorages: Manele Bay is the main anchorage, with pristine waters perfect for snorkeling.
- Challenges: Limited facilities and the island’s leeward side can experience sudden swells.
- Local Tips: Ideal for a day trip from Maui, but plan carefully as resources are scarce.
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Niʻihau: The Forbidden Isle & Kahoʻolawe: The Sacred Isle
- Overview: Niʻihau is privately owned and off-limits to most visitors. Kahoʻolawe is uninhabited and revered as sacred land.
- Routes & Restrictions: Yachters can circumnavigate but are not allowed to land. These islands offer unique marine ecosystems but are challenging to access.
- Challenges: Treacherous waters and strict access regulations.
- Local Tips: Obtain permission and follow guidelines if planning to sail near these islands
Route Planning & Safety Tips
- Best Time to Cruise: The ideal months are from April to October, outside the hurricane season. Trade winds are generally more predictable during this time.
- Provisioning: Stock up in Honolulu or Kailua-Kona, as smaller islands have limited supplies. Fresh produce can be hard to find.
- Fueling Stations: Available in key harbors like Honolulu, Lahaina, and Hilo. Plan fuel stops carefully, especially if venturing to remote areas.
- Communication & Navigation: Ensure your yacht is equipped with reliable communication devices, as cell service can be spotty. Paper charts are essential.
- Environmental Awareness: Adhere to no-discharge zones, practice responsible waste disposal, and respect marine life habitats.
Cultural Insights and Local Customs
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understand the significance of Hawaiian traditions, especially when visiting sacred sites. Engage with the local community respectfully.
- Marine Conservation: Participate in efforts to preserve the islands’ unique ecosystems, like coral reef protection and marine mammal safety.
MARINAS
WEATHER
SEVERE WEATHER
PILOT CHARTS
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PORTS OF ENTRY
PORTS OF ENTRY
Hawaii (Big Island)
Hilo,
Kailua-Kona
Hnokohau
Kauai
Nawiliwili
Maui
Kahului
Maalaea
Oahu
Barbers Point Harbour
Ko Olina
Honolulu
DOCUMENTS
MUST SEE
Oʻahu
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
- Coordinates: 21.3649° N, 157.9496° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings year-round to avoid crowds.
- Diamond Head State Monument
- Coordinates: 21.2619° N, 157.8050° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during winter months (November to March) for cooler temperatures.
- Waikiki Beach
- Coordinates: 21.2766° N, 157.8275° W
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
- Coordinates: 21.2690° N, 157.6938° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings on weekdays to avoid crowds; closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Polynesian Cultural Center
- Coordinates: 21.6397° N, 157.9234° W
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during the spring and fall for a more relaxed experience.
- Lanikai Beach
- Coordinates: 21.3933° N, 157.7156° W
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during spring and fall to avoid crowds.
- Byodo-In Temple
- Coordinates: 21.4290° N, 157.8374° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during weekdays for a peaceful experience.
- Nuuanu Pali Lookout
- Coordinates: 21.3700° N, 157.7960° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for clear views and cooler temperatures.
- Iolani Palace
- Coordinates: 21.3069° N, 157.8583° W
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during mid-morning hours.
- Waimea Valley
- Coordinates: 21.6386° N, 158.0516° W
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for blooming flora and comfortable weather.
Maui
- Haleakalā National Park
- Coordinates: 20.7097° N, 156.2537° W
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise visits require reservations; consider visiting during sunset for fewer crowds.
- Road to Hāna
- Coordinates: 20.7895° N, 156.0030° W
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during dry season (April to October) for safer driving conditions.
- ʻĪao Valley State Monument
- Coordinates: 20.8550° N, 156.5450° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during weekdays to avoid afternoon rain showers.
- Kāʻanapali Beach
- Coordinates: 20.9245° N, 156.6947° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during summer months for calm waters.
- Molokini Crater
- Coordinates: 20.6338° N, 156.4966° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during summer for optimal snorkeling conditions.
- Lāhainā Historic District
- Coordinates: 20.8783° N, 156.6825° W
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings during weekdays for a relaxed atmosphere.
- Maui Ocean Center
- Coordinates: 20.7917° N, 156.5011° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park
- Coordinates: 20.7850° N, 156.0020° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings during weekdays for solitude.
- Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach)
- Coordinates: 20.6170° N, 156.4420° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm
- Coordinates: 20.7410° N, 156.3260° W
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June to August) for peak lavender bloom.
Hawaiʻi (Big Island)
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- Coordinates: 19.4194° N, 155.2885° W
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; check eruption updates for optimal viewing
Hawaiʻi (Big Island)
- Mauna Kea Summit and Observatories
- Coordinates: 19.8207° N, 155.4681° W
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset or evening for stargazing, year-round.
- Akaka Falls State Park
- Coordinates: 19.8687° N, 155.1542° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during spring for lush scenery and cooler weather.
- Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
- Coordinates: 19.4215° N, 155.9091° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons for cooler temperatures.
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
- Coordinates: 19.1360° N, 155.5021° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings to see sea turtles basking on the shore.
- Rainbow Falls
- Coordinates: 19.7283° N, 155.1033° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for the best chance to see rainbows.
- Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
- Coordinates: 20.1224° N, 155.5942° W
- Best Time to Visit: Late mornings for clearer skies and panoramic views.
- Kona Coffee Living History Farm
- Coordinates: 19.5194° N, 155.9101° W
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall during coffee harvest season.
- Kaumana Caves State Park
- Coordinates: 19.6963° N, 155.1261° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings for cooler temperatures.
Kauaʻi
- Nā Pali Coast State Park
- Coordinates: 22.1400° N, 159.6381° W
- Best Time to Visit: May to September for calmer seas and hiking opportunities.
- Waimea Canyon State Park
- Coordinates: 22.0456° N, 159.6692° W
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings during spring and fall for clear views.
- Wailua Falls
- Coordinates: 22.0384° N, 159.3790° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings to catch the sunlight on the falls.
- Hanalei Bay
- Coordinates: 22.2048° N, 159.4972° W
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
- Kīlauea Lighthouse
- Coordinates: 22.2236° N, 159.4020° W
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months for whale watching.
- Spouting Horn
- Coordinates: 21.8775° N, 159.4710° W
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset for dramatic views.
- Allerton Garden (Lawai Valley)
- Coordinates: 21.9034° N, 159.5250° W
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for guided tours and cooler weather.
REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
Hawaii offers a variety of chandleries, marine yards, and repair services across its islands. Here are some notable establishments:
Oahu:
- Keehi Marine Center: Located in Honolulu, this facility provides dry dock services, repair services, wet slips, a fuel dock, storage, and security.
- K&C Marine: Based in Oahu, K&C Marine offers comprehensive boat repair services, including painting, lettering, ceramic coating, and outboard motor repair.
- GZ Boatworks: Serving all of Oahu, GZ Boatworks provides mobile marine repair services, including motor work, fiberglass repair, restoration, electrical, plumbing, and solar installations.
- Hawaii Marine Solutions LLC: This company offers marine repair services with a focus on honesty and quality, serving the boating community of Oahu.
- Reliable Marine Hawaii: Specializing in mobile mechanical engine repair and maintenance, they are authorized dealers for Yamaha and Volvo, offering certified repairs and engine sales.
Hawaii (Big Island):
- Top Shape Marine Services: Located in Honokohau Harbor, Kailua-Kona, they specialize in diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical, electronics, generators, running gear, and gyro stabilizers.
Maui:
- Maui Mobile Marine: Founded in 2018, they offer marine repair services, including outboard and inboard motor service, electronics installation, trailer repair, light fabrication, and hull work.
Statewide:
- Marisco, Ltd.: Based in Kapolei, Marisco is Hawaii’s premier shipyard, providing ship repair services to governmental and commercial marine sectors, including the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Army.
- Pacific Shipyards International: Located in Honolulu, they offer ship repair services and have been serving Hawaii’s maritime community for over 80 years.
EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO
HAWAI'I DIGITAL CHARTS
HAWAI’I DIGITAL CHARTS IN MBTILES FORMAT
THE ABOVE FILES ARE FOR LOGGED IN USERS ONLY