Updated at 10:10 a.m., Monday, August 27, 2007
Coast Guard to enforce Superferry security zone
Advertiser Staff
The U.S. Coast Guard is reiterating a previously announced security zone around the Hawaii Superferry — named the Alakai — that extends 100 yards whether it is under way or at anchor.Violations of the security zone are a federal offense and may result in civil penalties; fines of up to $32,500 per violation, where each additional day of a violation is a separate violation, or criminal penalties including imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000, seizure and forfeiture of the vessel, and other administrative sanctions authorized by law, the Coast Guard said in a statement.
Sunday night, protestors on Kaua'i delayed the arrival of the Hawaii Superferry.
"These security zones are necessary to provide a safe and secure environment for both recreational vessels and the Alakai," the Coast Guard said. "Inside the harbors of Honolulu, Kahului and Nawiliwili, the Alakai will have a circular security zone extending 100 yards out from, and centered on the vessel. The security zone will move with the vessel as long as it is within three nautical miles of the mouth of the harbor. No person is allowed within 100 yards of the Alakai when it is under way or at anchor, unless authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port-Honolulu. The security zone around the Alakai is activated and enforced whether the ship is under way, moored, position keeping, or anchored, and will continue in effect until such time as the Alakai departs the enforceable area."
