The governor, at a news conference at the state Capitol, said Superferry executives were informed yesterday and were told they would have to limit service to daylight hours. Superferry had originally scheduled visits to Kaua'i in the evenings.

Lingle said the daylight schedule could conflict with other harbor users, such as cruise ships, but would better protect public safety in the event of protests.

"Our main focus has been on safety," Lingle said, explaining that a new, "unified command," will supervise the ferry.

Superferry, in a statement, said it was pleased that authorities had provided assurances regarding the safety of passengers, crew and people on Kaua'i when service is resumed.

"In the near future, we will provide more details regarding our resumption of service between Kaua'i and O'ahu. We look forward to providing a safe and reliable interisland ferry service for the residents and business community of Hawai'i."

Lingle and the Coast Guard today warned of arrests and prosecution if protesters ignore a designated protest area and violate federal security zones that have been set up to ensure the ferry's safe passage into the harbor.

Superferry executives had indefinitely suspended ferry service to Kaua'i after protests last month.