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