'Superferry' Takes Off, But Controversy Persists

"On Dec. 13, after four months of lawsuits, protests and politics, the Hawaii Superferry finally started service between Honolulu and Maui. The 350-foot catamaran, which can accommodate 866 passengers and 286 cars, promises to revolutionize travel between the islands by allowing people to travel with their cars and possessions, instead of people flying and cars traveling — empty — on barges."

"But critics of the Superferry say that the controversy the ferry generated by sidestepping — at least for now — an assessment of its possible environmental effects goes much further than how many calving humpback whales the 850-ton catamaran may kill as it slices through the waves at 40 m.p.h. The Superferry has to produce an environmental impact statement within 18 months, and local protesters say increased congestion and loss of access to beaches from the spread of luxury vacation homes must be considered."