Updated at 2:59 p.m., Wednesday, November 14, 2007
New Young Brothers barge enters Hawaii service
Advertiser Staff
Young Brothers' newest interisland barge, the Ho'omaka Hou, will begin service tomorrow with a voyage from Honolulu Harbor to Nawiliwili Harbor on Kaua'i.The Ho'omaka Hou, first of four new barges being purchased by Young Brothers, is part of a $186 million investment announced last year by the state's largest interisland cargo company.
The 340-foot long barge can carry up to 40 percent more than Young Brothers, Limited's current primary barge size. In addition to providing more room for cargo, it will also significantly enhance service time by minimizing the need for tandem towing (two barges at a time). Single towing of larger barges expedites cargo shipments and delivery. The new barge will operate at a speed of nine nautical miles per hour, the company said.
"Our new barges will allow us to operate quickly and efficiently at higher service levels," said Glenn Hong, president of Young Brothers, Limited. "Ho'omaka Hou was designed to meet the needs of our Neighbor Island communities, and also represents the commitment of Young Brothers to serving the future generation of Hawai'i."
