Harbors

HONOLULU – The state Department of Transportation (DOT), Harbors Division, celebrated the dedication of a new Harbor Police patrol boat in the waters of Honolulu Harbor earlier today.  The new 27-foot, aluminum-hull vessel was christened Kia`iawa, meaning “harbor guardian,” and will patrol both Honolulu and Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbors.

“Security of our harbors is critical to our island state and the Kia`iawa will give our Harbor Police increased mobility and better tools to protect our ports,” said Glenn Okimoto, DOT Director.  “In cooperation with our City, State and Federal partners, the Kia`iawa will patrol these vital facilities for unauthorized vessels and suspicious activity.”

The Kia`iawa replaces the former patrol boat, the Moku Maka`i, a 21-foot Boston Whaler, after 15 years of service as the primary Harbor Police vessel.  The new vessel cost approximately $390,000 which was fully provided by a federal grant.  It will feature upgraded equipment over the previous patrol boat, including better radar, GPS and depth-finding devices.  The vessel is also equipped with a closed-cabin and shock-absorbing seats to minimize impacts in rough water conditions.  The Moku Maka`i will remain in service as a supplemental patrol craft.