Dear vessel owner/operator:

We have had numerous complaints about these issues.  This letter is to remind you as a permittee of Kewalo Basin Harbor of your obligations per the Hawaii Administrative Rules entitled “Kewalo Basin Rules for Vessel and Harbor Controls”. 

Item (1) §15-212-69  Sailing vessels in Kewalo Basin channel.   Sailing vessels shall only be permitted in Kewalo Basin channel if they are equipped with and are using motor power.   

Item (2) §15-212-83  Maximum speed of vessels.  All vessels over sixty-five feet shall proceed at a rate of speed (except in case of emergency) commensurate with safe navigation and slow enough so as not to cause damage to other vessels and property.  Vessels under sixty-five feet may proceed at a rate of speed not to exceed ten nautical miles per hour.  From inside the mouth of the channel shall be a no wake zone.  Nothing in this section shall preclude the harbormaster from setting a different rate of speed to meet specific conditions. 

Based upon the recommendation of the Kewalo Basin Stakeholders Advisory Council we are seeking approval of a fine schedule for violators of these rules.  It will be progressive ending with the termination of permits.    

Finally, as you know, both sides of the channel have treasured surf spots, use the entire length of the channel rather than cut through these surf zones.  We know that some surfers/swimmers cross the channel, so please proceed slowly enough so as not to injure and perhaps remind them that it is a poor choice to cross a harbor channel.    

Should you have any questions please call us or stop by 0830-1630 seven days a week.  

Yours truly,

Charles Barclay

Harbor Manager