Somewhat related thread...

http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttr...ML/000264.html

Inter-island ferry service has been bandied around for a while. Back in the 70's hydrofoil service was established (SeaFlite) between the islands, but the local sea conditions proved too rough and the equipment suffered from frequent breakdowns (imagine being stuck, rolling in 8'-10' seas for a few hours)

In the early 90's a ferry was tried from West O`ahu to downtown Hononolu, but failed due to low passenger use. There also has been limited service from Maui to Moloka`i and Lana`i at one time or another.

The channels between O'ahu and Kaua`i and Moloka`i can be pretty rough, and the channel between the Big Island and Maui can be some of the nastiest water you'd want to see in a small boat.

It's really a shame that there isn't a viable solution; Hawai`i, when viewed from the ocean, is an exhilarating experience.

[Edited to add a link to a news story that contains a recap of historical attempts at inter-island ferry service]

http://starbulletin.com/2002/03/10/business/story1.html

[This message has been edited by FlyinHawaiian (edited 07-30-2003).]