This project is dependent on the findings of the feasibility study currently being conducted that is set to be completed in February 2025. There was a feasibility study conducted in 2017 for the State Department of Transportation about inter- and intra- island ferry systems. They evaluated an intra-County system between Maui and Molokaʻi to restore the service absent since Sea Link ceased its operations in 2016 as part of the study. From the study: ”An intra-island ferry system, or an intra-County system between Maui and Molokaʻi, will link two points on a single island or within a County that would primarily accommodate commuters which may also alleviate traffic congestion.” Also in the study: ”The anomaly among these four ferry systems is the Maui-Molokaʻi intra-County system. The market study results align with the other prospective routes, but the anecdotal comments from all participants accentuate a very real need for this service to be restored.” The County Ferry
Feasibility Study’s public engagement conducted two rounds of engagement including a survey (1,704 responses) and a total of 16 workshops held in July/August (155 participants) and October 2024 (120 participants). Overall, there was broad support for ferry service to Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi, though concerns existed about environmental and tourism impacts, vessel suitability and connections to ground transportation. Preferences included later Lānaʻi return trips, an interest in both Maʻalaea and Lahaina as Maui ports, lower fares than air travel, and improved baggage handling. Skepticism surrounded Seaglider technology. Regarding Maui terminals, Lahaina (upon reopening) was favored, while Kahului was deemed unsuitable. Proposed amenities received general support.