The Sept. 30 article, “Interisland shipping lifeline argues for rate-hike rescue,” brought back fond memories and remorse of what could have been.

For those not familiar, the Superferry began service primarily between Oahu and Maui in 2007 and ran until 2009, transporting cargo, including vehicles and passengers. It opened up an option to Young Brothers’ barge service and interisland air. Thousands of people used the service and it was a huge benefit for businesses looking to serve all the islands.

Unfortunately, due to a ruling from the Hawaii Supreme Court, the ferry was shut down due to lack of a completed environmental review. If only it could have been allowed to continue, Hawaii wouldn’t now be facing a monopoly of shipping vital goods between the islands by a sole provider.

Earl

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