PART II —
The Hawaii Adventure Continues —

MONDAY, July 5th (Sailing day number 2)

It is morning and I have just spent my first night aboard a sailboat at anchor in the ocean. This is yet another milestone for me. As I awake, I am presented with the delightful smell of Linda’s breakfast. I hurry topside to see what the island looks like at dawn. Wow…what a treat. The air is warm and crystal-clear and the morning light reveals a landscape of green that appears untouched by humanity. The warm turquoise water is in constant rhythmic movement against the shore and produces a delightful relaxing sound. I am extremely happy to be here and I feel the trip is easily living up to my expectations. However, I do have one complaint. I had wanted to lose some weight on this trip, but with Linda’s cooking being what it is… In fact, if all the meals are like this I may even gain a little. Sailors have a term for weight gain at sea. It is known as “float and bloat.”

The Quiet Coast

After breakfast, we raise the anchor and get under way. Today we are sailing in the lee of the island and the waves are not nearly as big as the ones we encountered yesterday. Rob lets me take the helm again. Linda has put bandages on the blisters I got from the last time and this time I am wearing my sailing gloves. Between her and Rob, I feel I am in good hands.

Not long after our departure from the cove, we see two other sailboats. Seeing other boats is not such a common sight when sailing away from populated areas. In fact, it is possible to sail for days without seeing another boat. No doubt, like us, these boats spent the night at anchor along the quiet south coast of Lanai.

We have been sailing for over an hour past an area that appears totally devoid of human life. It seems strange that we do not see any evidence of life on such a big island. Most of the island of Lanai is a pineapple plantation owned by Dole Pineapple. For some reason, demand for pineapple is decreasing so fewer people live on the island now.

I keep a constant watch for any sign of life. I do not see any until we sail past a dock that is used to load pineapples onto cargo ships. It turns out that this

In addition to looking for signs of life on land, I am also looking into the water searching for a glimpse of some marine life. I would especially like to see a Dolphin or a Whale. I would even like to see a (gulp) Shark. Rob assures me that before the trip is over I will see some marine life, and probably a shark. I hope he is right.

Red skin is not “in”

The warm sun and the fresh sea air feel good to me, but it has been a long time since I have had this much exposure to the sun. I am already sun burned from the two days I spent at Waikiki Beach and there is concern among the others about the bright red color of my skin. I assure them everything is okay, but I take their advice and seek refuge in the shade. I really enjoy being at the helm, so only reluctantly do I turn it over to Bill.

After a very relaxing sail, we arrive at a place called Manele Bay. There are several berths available here and that means we will not need to anchor. There is a nice park next to the dock and a fantastic beach nearby.

Soon after our docking duties are completed, Linda leads us to Hulapoi Beach. It has fine textured light colored sand and a forest of coconut palm trees surrounds the area. The waves are gentle but large enough for body surfing. We jump in the water and take advantage of the waves, but much of the time we just sit looking out at the pastel colored ocean from whence we came. I am now beginning to get into the relaxation phase of the trip.

Not many people come to Lanai because it lacks many of the mainstream tourist facilities. In fact, today there are only a handful of people on the beach. I cannot help notice that the people setting next to me are speaking French and I am curious to find out where they are from. I say hello in French and they smile and reply in French. After my introduction, I have kina exhausted my French vocabulary so I start speaking English. I am happy when they too switch to English. I find out that they are from Canada up near the Arctic Circle and that the Hawaiian climate is about as different from theirs as you can get. In fact, they tell me that when they left to come to Hawaii it was 30 degrees BELOW ZERO! It is 82 degrees today so that means a difference of 112 degrees for them. It is hard to imagine how they feel about that, but like me, they are sporting bright red skin—a gift to all of us from the intense Hawaiian sun.

Before we leave the beach, everyone takes a cool freshwater shower. When we get back to the boat, we are delighted to find out that Rob is in the final stages of preparing a wonderful barbecue. I make up for the dinner I did not eat last night!

Now you see it ‑ now you don’t

Tonight because of the predictable movements of the cosmos and a great deal of luck on our part, we will have the chance to view one of the best lunar eclipses for many years to come. After dinner, we climb to the top of a Lava bluff and reserve a front row seat for the lunar eclipse about to appear in the sky.

We watch the eclipse develop to the sound of Rob playing his harmonica softly in the background. This is very special. The eclipse, the stars, and the satellites reflecting off the sea below create a truly dramatic effect. I boldly make the pronouncement that the five of us are sitting at the exact best spot in the whole world to view this eclipse. Everyone laughs at this, but I am not so sure that I am wrong. I had the good sense to bring along the recorder and thus capture the sounds of the evening on tape.

With the eclipse fully developed, we all agree that it has been an exciting show. We also agree that we have been sitting on hard lava much too long and that we should return to the boat. Without the moon to light our way it is now very dark, and in the blackness Mae trips on the lava and falls down. The lava rock is hard and jagged and so we are concerned about her, but to our joy, she bounces back quickly. What could have been a disaster turns out to be just a minor incident.

The light in “my room”

It is very warm inside Super Star tonight so I decide to sleep on shore in a grassy area about 100 feet from the boat. This turns out to be a mistake because when the eclipse is over an extremely bright full moon lights up the sky. I do not sleep well because it is like trying to sleep with a bright light on in my bedroom.

TUESDAY, July 6th (Sailing day number 3)

It is hot at Manele Bay and I am drained of energy. To make up for my lack of sleep last night I nap until noon then manage to drag myself topside in time to see my ship mates returning from their trip to the beach. It is very hot and everyone looks forward to getting back out to sea again where the air is cooler. It is only the third sailing day, but for me, time seems to be moving much too fast.

Lake Who?

Our destination this time is the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui, but because there is very little wind today, getting there under sail could be quite a challenge. Occasionally there is a day with very little wind in the channel between Lanai and Maui, and when this condition exists, the local sailors refer to the channel as “Lake Lahaina.” It turns out that the sails alone do not provide enough speed so we resort to the engine. As we get closer, the features of Maui come into better focus, and it is beautiful. The engine noise is unpleasant compared with the quiet of the sail. Until now, we have only used the engine a little everyday to recharge the batteries, and allow the refrigerator to operate at maximum output for a while. I for one will be glad when we can get back to sailing again.

MAUI

Everyone is happy to see Maui looming larger and larger beyond the pitching bow of Super Star. I am anxious to set foot on Maui because so many people have told me that it is a magical place among all the islands of Hawaii. Linda and Rob both seem to be especially excited about going there and the rest of us are beginning to feel their excitement. So far, every place I have been to in Hawaii has been great, so Maui must really be something.

Maui is called the “Island of the Valleys,” and as we get closer, I find myself straining to make out the details of the lush green landscape. We can see a tropical rainstorm hanging suspended over the west Maui Mountains drenching them with water, and to our delight, producing a beautiful horizon-to-horizon rainbow. It is little wonder this place is so green. The continuous flow of water from the mountains will no doubt keep things growing for a long time.

Although I have never been here, the island of Maui has always seemed special to me. Arriving by sailboat makes it even more so. In fact, I have looked forward to visiting here for so long that our arrival is like a religious experience for me.

LAHAINA

Our level of excitement rises even further as the old Whaling town of Lahaina comes into view. In the old days, the harbor at Lahaina was filled with great wind powered Whaling Ships. Today with my imagination turned up to number 10, I can visualize those great old ships at anchor.

We anchor Super Star about 75 yards off shore then lower our rubber boat (called a Zodiac) into the water. I have developed a real respect for the fact that there is a lot of work associated with sailing, but I am enjoying this experience and I feel it is well worth the effort. After attaching the outboard motor to the Zodiac, we climb in and head for Lahaina Town.

Lahaina is an old Whaling Village with a rich and interesting history. On the way in Rob reminds us that we are coming ashore in much the same way that the men from those Whaling boats did many years ago. Well, almost the same way. They used a human powered “long boat.” We are roaring toward the dock in a rubber boat powered by a gasoline engine. Still, at this point I do feel a somewhat connected with the past.

My thoughts are jerked back to the present when the Zodiac bumps into the dock. There are several rubber boats tied up here and they look like a herd of strange gray sea creatures. Finally, with some effort we find a place to squeeze in and then make a shaky exit to the dock. (Have you ever tried to stand up in a rubber boat?)

THE PIONEER INN

Leaving the dock our first stop is the world famous Pioneer Inn. Rob points out that it can be somewhat difficult to get past the Pioneer Inn without stopping for a drink or two. In fact says he, it can be even harder getting past there if you do stop for a drink or two!

It is at the Pioneer Inn that I first notice that although I am no longer on the boat everything is still rocking. (This is before I have a drink.) I cannot believe this. I had to develop “sea legs” for the boat, and now I have to get use to being back on land. I hope the liquid in my glass will solve my problem.

After our brief stop at the Pioneer Inn, we continue on to the Ocean View Restaurant and have dinner. While we are eating, I look out the window and see Super Star gently rising and falling with each passing wave. I find it hard to believe that I finally made it to Maui, and that I arrived on the wonderful boat that now lies at anchor beyond the window. I ask Linda to pinch me because I want to determine if this is only a dream. Ouch – she took me seriously, and it’s clearly not a dream.

During dinner, we discuss how best to spend our time on Maui. We decide to rent a car and drive to the top of Haleakala Crater in the morning. Haleakala (pronounced HA‑LEE‑AK‑A‑LA) is 10,000 feet high.

I volunteer to go for the car while the others set out to see more of Lahaina. Rob is feeling the need to relax a bit so he decides to return to Super Star. Linda goes with him so she can bring the Zodiac back to pick up the three intrepid ocean voyagers after their night on the town. We chance to go into a local bar, and they have a really good house band playing. We cannot believe our luck. It is Fleetwood Mac preparing for their world in front of a live audience.

WEDNESDAY, July 7th (“Sailing” day number 4)

Today we get up early so we can spend the entire day on Maui. I did not sleep well last night because Super Star was really rolling around. At breakfast, Rob tells us that the movement was caused by a “strange” swell pattern. Good grief Charley Brown, this boat has been rocking’ and Rollin’ ever since I arrived. How am I supposed to tell a strange swell pattern from a normal one? With warm gentle breezes and a clear blue-sky, it is another “boring” day in paradise.

After breakfast, we climb back into the Zodiac and return to Lahaina. We will head for the top of Haleakala Crater if I can remember where I left the rent-a-car last night. Soon we we’re driving past sugar cane fields, and I cannot help but notice that some of them are on fire. It turns out that they burn the cane fields to make the harvest easier. The fire clears away the slash and clears the fields of insects and rodents. Fortunately, the smoke is quickly blown away by the famous pacific trade winds.

Maui is beautiful all over. On the way up the mountain, I see several places I would like to live. Since this is a tropical island, flowers grow here in abundance. The humidity and the sunshine make this a perfect place for growing flowers and every house has a beautiful garden.

THE HOUSE OF THE SUN

Haleakala means “House of the Sun.” We begin our trip up the mountain in a soft rain falling from a cloud that appears to be stuck to the mountain. This condition is normal because in Hawaii you often find a cloud hanging over a mountain. It is caused when the warm humid air is forced up the side of the mountain by the wind, and then when it meets the colder air above it condenses and forms a cloud. (Please remember this, because it will be on the test.) Haleakala being 10,000 feet tall is no exception to the aforementioned phenomenon.

We soon pass through the cloud layer and into the cool dry air above. The sun is extremely bright at the top of Haleakala, but the air is cool. This is quite a dramatic change from the warmth below, and we have to keep reminding ourselves that we are still in Hawaii. This has to be one of the most dramatic changes in temperature I have ever experienced. All of us (including the car) feel the effects of going from sea level to 10,000 feet in such a short time. It is a fact that the ride up this mountain is the fastest assent by car to 10,000 feet anywhere in the world. (Remember this because it will also be on the test.)

The view from on top is well worth the trip up. We are standing at the rim of a volcanic crater that looks like it belongs to another world. From this lofty vantage point, we can see the island of Lanai where we were yesterday. We can also see the largest island in the Hawaiian chain. It is the island named, Hawaii. It is known locally as The Big Island. On the island of Hawaii, we see what looks like steam coming from a famous active volcano there. Because Haleakala has been dormant for hundreds of years, there is no steam or any other activity occurring, but while we stare into this strange pit, clouds begin to creep through an opening at the far end. This gives the appearance of activity in the crater ‑ it also makes this place seem even stranger. I am really glad we decided to come here.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Climbing to 10,000 feet (even in a car) makes one hungry, so we decide to descend the mountain and seek out some food. The under powdered rent a car comes down the mountain much easier than it went up and soon we reach the town of Makawao. (MACK-AH-WOW) We are encouraged by Rob to stop at Poly’s Mexican Restaurant for lunch. Poly’s is a vegetarian restaurant, and as such, they do not use meat. Rob does not say anything about this at the time so I think I am eating real meat in my Taco.

After our meatless meal, we continue on to the lush Iao Valley. (Pronounced E‑OW) This valley is probably best known for the tall pointed rock formation called “The Iao Needle.” It is very green in this valley, and as you might imagine, very wet. Because California gets little or no rain in the summer months, most of the natural vegetation turns brown. I just came from there and I am overwhelmed by the deep shades of green that I see here. We take several pictures of this lush garden valley then move on.

It is now mid afternoon and we are all getting tired. On the way back to Lahaina, everyone falls asleep in the car. (Well not everyone, I am driving.) Could it be that they do not want to hear the rest of my detailed explanation on the inner workings of a computer? I wonder how long have I been talking to myself?

Upon our return to Lahaina, everyone wakes up and we set out to explore more of the town. However, we soon end up right back at the Pioneer Inn. “The Pioneer Inn, again,” you say. You must understand it is hard to get past that place without stopping. They serve such good rum drinks there. AARRGG!!! I must admit my memory of the remainder of the evening is a bit fuzzy. I do remember that when return to the boat, we get into an hour of jokes and continuous laughter. Of all the nights aboard Super Star, we will no doubt remember this one.

THURSDAY, July 8th (Sailing day number 5)

We conclude our stay in Lahaina and set sail for the northwest end of Maui. I do not remember if the “strange” swell pattern returned last night because I slept like a rock. It is a beautiful morning and it feels good to be back at sea again. As they have done all along, Rob and Linda work hard to insure that we all have a good time. Linda is a good cook, and has had a way of making our shore excursions a lot of fun. In short, the trip is going well, and except for occasional talk of feeding me to the sharks if I tell just one more joke, all of us are getting along real well.

Leaving Lahaina, we have to use the engine for the same reason we did on the way in ‑- very little wind. This time it is ok because just a short distance up the coast we can see the wind line on the water. Crossing over the line we find the wind blowing steady and the waves are meeting us almost head on. (My kind of sailing) I love the salt spray in my face and the wind in what little hair I have left.

When we arrive at our destination, we discover that we cannot spend the night where Rob had originally planned. The direction from which the wind is blowing makes the anchorage impossible. This is unfortunate because Rob has generally had good luck seeing, indeed even swimming, with Dolphins in that area. We sail to an alternate cove (Honolua Bay) which is not far from the first choice. When we get there, we find another sailboat at anchor. Slowly the movement of the ocean swings it around, and we see by the name and city painted on the stern that it is from Sausalito California. Hey, that is where I live. Well how about that. It is not such a big ocean after all.

Rob tells us again about his good luck in the past finding and swimming with Dolphins in this general area. However, thus far we have not seen any. I really want to see (and possibly swim with) a dolphin, but it looks like it is not in the cards. Everything else is great so I can’t complain. Oops, I spoke too soon. We are at anchor close to a road used by large trucks going back and forth to a construction site and we can hear the rumbling of their engines. If that is not bad enough, every time they come around a “blind” curve in the road, they give a blast of their horn. Tomorrow, maybe we can sail to a place that has never heard of trucks or horns.

FRIDAY, July 9th (Sailing day number 6)

After breakfast, we depart Honolua bay and head for the north shore of Molokai (the last island we will explore before returning to Honolulu.) Immediately we can see that the crossing between Maui and Molokai will be exciting and in sharp contrast to the crossing between Lanai and Maui. We sail in and out of rain showers all the way across the channel and we are in the middle of a moderate rain shower as we round the east end of Molokai. I always seem to be at the helm when it is raining and today is no exception.

From the very beginning of the trip, Rob has been telling us that the visit to the north shore of Molokai would be the highlight of our voyage. I really can’t see how this trip could get any better, but now I am thinking about what Rob said about Molokai. I peer through the rain and the mist and strain to make out the details of the island. We soon sail out of the shower and the dull gray curtain of rain lifts to reveal the most dramatic landscape that I have ever seen. Towering green mountains covered with white waterfalls rise majestically from the restless ocean. I begin experiencing Deja vu and I find myself sailing in a dream that I had as a child. Rob was right when he said this was to be the high light of our voyage.

Anyone who knows me will testify I am not often at a loss for words, but right now, I am finding it difficult to say anything. Indeed, as we drink in the scene that slowly passes before us there is complete silence on Super Star. The silence is finally broken as each of us tries to describe the sights that pass before us. However, words just do not seem to work in this situation.

The mountains that rise from the sea on the north coast of Molokai are said to be the highest coastal mountains in the world. Our attention is captured by the numerous waterfalls that cascade down the face of almost every mountain. At one point, we count as many as eleven waterfalls on the face of a single mountain. With all the rain in this area, the falls will no doubt be active for some time to come. We sail along the north coast of Molokai and because of the winds in the rain squalls, and the following sea, we are moving at a healthy pace for a sailboat. The rain showers continue to come and go as we sail, and at times, they lend a phantom‑like quality to the island.

Finally we arrive at the cove Rob calls Kie Ava Nuie. It is pronounced KAY‑AHVA‑NEW‑E, which means Land of the big Ava. Ava is the Hawaiian word for Kava. It is here in this dramatic setting where we will spend the next two days. Now I understand why Rob was so excited about coming here.

We turn into Kie Ava Nuie and I am mesmerized by the lush green jungle spreading back from the ocean. Rob quickly points out the large rocks that present a constant threat to us and he attempts to focus our attention on making a safe anchorage. I am trying to help him anchor the boat, but my attention is constantly diverted by the beauty of this place. We do not get the approach right the first time. We turn back out to sea and try it again. This time we all give Rob the assistance he asked for and we make a successful approach. We drop both anchors. Rob dives into the water to wedge them securely in the rocks. By hooking our anchors into the rocks, we will have a better chance of not drifting into the big rock formations that comprise the shoreline. If we were to break loose and drift onto these rocks, Super Star would be destroyed!

During the dive to secure the anchor, Rob comes face to face with a large eel. The only thing he can do is to kick his orange swim-fins in the face of the eel and hope for the best. The eel does not think the orange rubber fins look very tasty, and he retreats back into his cave. After Rob climbs back aboard Super Star, we lower the Zodiac into the water and attach the engine to the transom. Rob starts the engine then invites everyone to join him for a tour of the area.

Our first stop is a large sea level cave. It is a lava tube about thirty to forty feet across and fifty feet high created by volcanic activity in the geological past of Hawaii. The coral inside is a pastel color because it has never been exposed to sunlight, and dozens of crabs are set scurrying about as we approach. Also, several birds known as Sooty Turns fly around in an excited fashion reacting to the noisy invasion of their normally quiet domain.

We inhale as much of this experience as our senses will hold, then roar out and continue along the coast. Outside the cave, we encounter large swells and I begin thinking about the fact that I am not a great swimmer. I have complete trust in Rob so I don’t give it much thought.

After a short ride, Rob takes us into another cave. This one is actually a tunnel and inside it is filled with the most beautiful turquoise water I have ever seen. (Eat your heart out Walt Disney.) I quickly begin taking pictures of the water. However, our enthusiasm is dampened when Rob tells us that, in the past, people with very expensive very sophisticated camera equipment have tried and failed to capture on film the beautiful water in this cave. I feel that he must be wrong, but when I get the pictures developed, I find out he was right. My pictures of the water in this cave didn’t even come close to what we saw so I don’t keep them. What a shame. The sight was unbelievable.

After a short stay, we leave the cave and head for a place where there is a beautiful waterfall. I take several pictures of this place and they turn out great. Rob suggests that we swim ashore in the surf and romp around in the waterfall. No way Jose! Riding around in this raft is enough excitement for me. The surf is crashing wildly against the shore, and we wisely decide to pass on the waterfall. On the way back to Super Star I take some pictures of the strange rock formations that have been carved through the centuries by the wind and sea. I did not know it at the time, but when I get home, I find a picture that has captured what looks to me to be the likeness of the famous Hawaiian chief, King Kamehameha. I am extremely pleased and fascinated with that picture.

Rob takes us back to Super Star then goes ashore to speak with John Wilson, (that’s not his real name) one of the few inhabitants of the area. While we watch from the deck, the young Hawaiian boys that live in Kie Ava Nuie put on a diving show for us by climbing up the rocks and plunging into the ocean below. They are having fun and no doubt, like kids the world over, they enjoy showing off. I tell my shipmates that I would not dive from those rocks if you held a gun to my head. However, I must confess that later I find myself thinking that I might like to try it just to see what it was like. (I never do.)

Rob goes over to the rocks and asks the kids if they would like to go aboard Super Star?” Without hesitation, they jump into the Zodiac. They are thrilled to be invited on board and are talking a mile‑a‑minute to each other. I quickly discover that they are not necessarily speaking the same language that I speak. They are speaking “Pidgin English” and Rob says we may not understand all the words. He is right, but I find I have little trouble talking with them. Well, that is when they stop talking long enough for me to say anything.

John Wilson comes aboard with the kids and stays long enough to share a beer with us. He lives in a hut that he built himself, and along with these kids and their parents, are the only inhabitants of the area. Only nine people live here. I try hard to imagine what it would be like to live in this remote place, but I cannot. I love this area, but I do not think living here in such isolation would be my cup of Java Juice.

During the time we are anchored here, a helicopter is bringing supplies to the family that lives above on the bluff. They have been away for a few months, and have just returned to build a better home for themselves. Here we are in a quiet jungle area listening to the sound of a helicopter every hour or so. Oh well, it does beat truck horns.

With the sun getting low on the horizon, we have dinner and view yet another magnificent sunset. After the sun goes down there is not much to do so we turn in for the night. Once again, the sound of the surf against the rocks is a constant reminder that danger is not far away. I trust Rob’s skill and judgment, but my military training taught me to be alert for the sake of everyone concerned. As I did at Lanai, I wake up every couple of hours during the night. I never have trouble falling back to sleep, but every time I wake; I cannot help but stare at the thousands of stars that are beyond the open hatch above me. Since stargazing is a love of mine, I really enjoy the opportunity to look at the beautiful night sky in Hawaii.

SATURDAY, July 10th (Sailing day number 7)

Today we are scheduled to go ashore and explore this strange and fascinating place. I am anxious to get going because Rob has been telling us about the geography and history of the area. There are many interesting things about Hawaii and we find comfort in at least two of them. In Hawaii, there are NO snakes and, there are NO poisonous plants. In fact, until the white man came to Hawaii there were not even plants with barbs or stickers. I am told that the early “Christian” missionaries brought the barbed plants to the island to force the native Hawaiian people to wear shoes. Now that’s really special.

We come ashore on the big rocks and work our way along a stream that flows past John Wilson’s hut. John is up above helping unload the Helicopter. We take a minute anyway to look into his dwelling. It is simple and it looks comfortable. Outside is a stream that provides us with fresh sweet drinking water and later a refreshing shower. We are told that soon the running water will produce electric power to make life in this remote jungle area more comfortable. From my point of view, I feel that this primitive life style is better in some ways than my life in the big city. Then again, I have only been here for two days. We continue up a wet narrow path until we reach the plateau where the family lives. The place is overgrown with foliage and it is clear that no one has tried to stop the advancing jungle for quite some time. These folks have their work cut out for them.

After a pleasant 45-minute visit with the family, we continue up the mountain to a large rock that Rob has named “Energy Rock.” Upon reaching the rock it becomes clear why Rob gave it that particular name. Our journey has been all uphill in a hot humid jungle so we sit on the rock for a while to get our energy back. I guess it does work somewhat, but what I really want is a cold drink.

After our encounter with “Energy Rock”, we move into a dense wooded area where I find another rock. This is a very special rock because carved in this rock is a picture of a man tossing a net over a fish. These rock carvings are called petroglyphs and are historical records of activities that took place here over a thousand years ago. The air temperature today is over 80 degrees but I develop goose bumps when I realize what I have just discovered. I want to take several pictures of this exciting find, but I have only one exposure left in my camera. When I develop the film, I am disappointed with the picture. The flash washed out most of the detail. However, I do end up with a picture that in the future will no doubt draw my consciousness back to this event, and if I am lucky, I will recall the feeling I experienced this day. It is exciting for me just knowing that in a way I shared something with a civilization that had been here a thousand years ago. I can’t help but wonder if they would understand the world I live in or if I could relate to theirs. Too bad the rock cannot literally bring us together.

Except for the wet slippery spots, where I am forced to call upon my skiing skills, the trip down the mountain is much easier than the trip up. When we get back to John’s hut, we take turns standing under a natural shower. It is a most welcome way to wash away the warm humid Hawaiian jungle before returning to Super Star.

SUNDAY, July 11th (Sailing day number 8)

Time is moving much too fast for me now and the thought of leaving Kie Ava Nuie is not a happy one. Rob and I bring the Zodiac aboard and lash it to the deck while the others clean up, pack up and stow everything that needs to be put away. After the Zodiac is secure, we begin raising the anchors that have dutifully held us in place during our stay. Rob starts the engine to help us raise the anchors. More importantly, the engine is needed to keep us from drifting onto the rocks. After what seems like an endless struggle, the anchors are finally up. The anchor drill is punctuated by broken bowsprit but now we are again headed for the open sea.

As we depart, I catch sight of a shark swimming along side the boat and loudly announce my discovery to the others. Rob estimates its length to be about 10 feet. I reach for my camera to record this event, but because I had to change film, it is in my cabin below. Rats, I wanted to have a picture of a shark, but there is no way I can get below and back up in time to take a photograph of this shark. Oh well, at least I did get to see it.

Shortly after leaving Kie Ava Nuie, we pass the famous leper colony of Hawaii. This colony has been there for over a hundred years, and it was for many years, a testament of man’s inhumanity to man. Then one day a Catholic Priest by the name of Father Damien came along and over the years built a beautiful town. He also improved the harsh life of the people inflected with the disease. Leprosy (also known as Hansen’s Disease) has long been eliminated, but the town remains. It will soon become a park, and no doubt introduce thousands of people to the North Shore of Molokai.

Looking back at Kie Ava Nuie, we see a rainsquall engulfing the beautiful cove. Somehow, we managed to depart at just the right time. I am back at the helm and enjoying my lot in life when my eyes begin to play tricks on me. I think I see a Dolphin leap into the air about 100 yards in front of the boat. I consider telling the others, but I decide that it is probably just a reflection from the intense Hawaiian sun on the waves. Besides, everyone knows how much I want to see a Dolphin, and I do not want to be accused of “crying Dolphin.” (If you’ll pardon the expression.)

The wind and the swells, both coming from almost directly aft, are pushing us along at a good clip. I now feel right at home with Super Star’s large wheel in my hands. I let my thoughts run wild as we sail effortlessly along with the rhythm of swells. In my mind, I try to recall scenes from sailing movies where the hero was at the wheel of a magnificent sailing vessel on an exciting voyage. I recall how dashing the hero looks as he slowly scans the horizon with squinting eyes. Well I don’t know if I look dashing, but because of the sun and the wind, I too am squinting as I scan the horizon. Then through my squinting eyes, I see not one, but two Dolphins leap into the air almost directly ahead of Super Star. Rob also sees this beautiful sight so I do not have any hesitation about yelling “Dolphins ahead!” Linda and Mae rush topside and Bill comes out from under the canvass cover we call a dodger. Rob goes forward for a better look then yells back, “let’s follow them.” I feel my pulse rate rise as we begin the chase, and I stand ready to comply with Rob’s every command.

My spirits soar when I become aware that we are closing the distance between them, but suddenly they are no longer going in the direction that we want to go. Rob told me to follow them no matter which way they went, so I turn Super Star to the appropriate heading and we slice across the waves in wild pursuit of “my” Dolphins.

If you know about sailing, then you know that when you change direction in a sailboat you have to adjust the sails to accommodate the angle of the wind. Well wind be damned, we change direction as required and deal with the sails as best we can. It is a wild pitching and rolling ride as we constantly meet the wind and the waves from different angles in our reckless pursuit of those beautiful Dolphins. To their credit, Linda, Mae and Bill do a marvelous job of managing our sails through the demanding situations of the chase.

After what seems like much too short a time, the Dolphins vanish. For a time, everyone keeps their eyes searching the sea in an attempt to relocate the playful pair, but it soon becomes apparent that our new friends have decided to play elsewhere. “They can’t do that to us,” I yell aloud. I am taking this personal, and I feel disappointed that we did not get even closer. No matter we are all happy to have had a brief encounter with a life form that in some ways is very close to humans. My interest in Dolphins has been enhanced by the kinship that Rob seems to have with them. He always refers to Dolphins as, “our Dolphin brothers” I am beginning to relate to the way he feels. We finally catch sight of the Dolphins about 150 yards ahead of us and now I know our encounter is over. They look so small against the backdrop of the endless sea.

I wave a symbolic good‑by to the Dolphins as they disappear beneath the waves. Rob suggests a new heading back to our original course, and after casting one last glimpse in the direction of the Dolphins, I respond with the helm.

The activity level aboard Super Star now seems quite low after the excitement of the Dolphin chase. However, in the food department things are moving along as usual. Somehow, Linda always manages to keep a constant flow of food and drink coming from the galley. I have totally given up on losing any weight.

We reach the west end of Molokai in the late afternoon. It is flat with a very long stretch of beautiful beach and is in sharp contrast to Kie Ava Nuie. Actually, there are several beaches here. There is also the Sheraton Molokai Hotel. It is modern looking, and from my point of view, it has an advantage over many of the other hotels because it is situated in a beautiful remote location.

We drop anchor about 75 yards off the beach and relax for a while. I am now very relaxed. I begin to wonder if I can ever return to the “life in the fast lane” existence I left 10 days ago. Again, we finish the day with a magnificent sunset. I am now taking these sunsets for granted, but I always watch them.

MONDAY July 12th (Sailing day number 9)

After breakfast is over everything is stowed. The anchor is returned to its proper place on board and again we are under way. Today we sail to the island of Oahu, which means that our adventure will be ending soon. This will be the final transit of the trip. I can recall several occasions in my life when I wished that time would stand still. This is definitely one of those occasions.

As we sail, we attempt to recap the events of the trip for each other and the conversation conjures memories of events that took place only a few days ago. Already they seem carved in the distant past. I hope my tape recorder will help me recall the details of the events we experienced.

As we get closer the island of Oahu slowly grows. It is clear that the odyssey is ending, but approaching the island is a beautiful sight. This takes my mind off the short time left on the trip. All the way to Oahu, I look for Dolphins. Unfortunately, I never see any.

We enter Kaneoai Bay and sail past the Marine Corps Air Base where the incredible sound from the departing F-4 Phantom Jets in full afterburner destroys the quiet of our sail in a noisy, but somehow fitting, welcome back to civilization for this aviator turned sailor.

On the way in Rob and Linda discuss the channel markings. I listen to Rob’s discussion and I feel that I could bring Super Star in without any help, but as always, Rob is keeping a watchful eye on our progress.

Our destination is a small sand island (sand bar) where we encounter several local families enjoying a day in the warm Sun. We drop the sails and coast until the sand rises to gently meet the keel of the boat. After we make contact with the sand and come to a complete stop, we back away and anchor in water deep enough to accommodate the draft of Super Star. Linda dives in the water and drags the anchor closer to the island. I dive in too then walk to the island made of sand. The water is very nice and I feel so good after getting wet. Now let me see; do sharks swim in shallow water?

With the approach of night, the locals leave the sand island and again we are alone. We are only about a mile from the island of Oahu, but we have the feeling of being much farther removed. What a great place to live!

TUESDAY July 13th (Sailing day number 10 ‑ The final day)

All things must end and this trip is no exception. Aware of that reality, I vault (ok crawl) out of my bunk. We have our last delightful meal from Linda then take a trip around Kaneoai Bay. Finally, our trip has ended. It starts to rain again and I feel the rain is simply an extension of how I feel inside about this trip ending. It is raining so guess who is at the helm? The rain clouds resting against the mountains provide a magnificent backdrop for the final chapter of my time aboard Super Star.

Throughout the trip, Rob always had an answer to the endless string of questions we ask. Even in the final minutes, he continues to answer our questions and provide us with an interesting tour of the area. We sail and eat, and eat and sail, then as quickly as it began, the trip has ended. It is time to dock Super Star and for us to part company. For the last time I relinquish the helm to Rob so he can bring us into the dock. After all lines are secured, I go below to collect my belongings. I am sad at the prospect of parting company with Rob and Linda and it feels strange to be leaving Super Star after our fabulous voyage. On shore, Bill, Mae and I say good‑bye to Rob and Linda. These two people provided us with 10 fun filled and memorable days, and in the process took very good care of us as well. I wish that our time together was not over, but it is.

As we walk toward the highway I want to turn around and take one last look at Super Star, but I cannot bring myself to do it. I know that from now on, she will just have to live in my memory. (I didn’t realize it then, but I was to be wrong about that.)

The bus ride back to Honolulu is interesting, but it is in sharp contrast to the last ten days. We pass shopping centers, residential areas, and busy streets, showing us yet another side of Hawaii. The most dramatic part of this is the view of Honolulu as we come over the mountain pass known as the Pali. In the past ten days, we have seen these islands in a way that most people, including the inhabitants, will never see them. I know that I shall remember this experience for some time to come!

EPILOGUE

Unfortunately, there is a sad postscript to my log. Several months after my trip aboard Super Star, she went aground when the owner (not Rob) and some friends were sailing her in the Honolulu area. Rob got the news when a friend called to tell him about the story that was playing on the 10 o’clock news. It was no doubt very painful for him to see Super Star being pounded by each incoming wave and slowly turning into a pile of rubble. It appears that my plans to sail aboard Super Star again will never be realized.

In March of 1983, Rob came to the San Francisco bay area to pickup another sailboat to be used in the charter program in Hawaii. The name of this boat is “Contessa.” Like Super Star, “Contessa” is a fifty-foot boat. However, she is of a different design. Rob invited me to sail with him when he brought her out of the boat repair yard in San Rafael. It was good to sail with him again if only for a few hours.

Linda returned to San Francisco in the fall of 1982. We got together several times and then she departed for a two-year sailing adventure around the Pacific Ocean. I have not had seen Bill or Mae since the trip. However, I enjoyed their company on Super Star, and hope I see them again some day.

As for me, I was deeply affected by my experience aboard Super Star. It created within me the desire to sail and explore the many interesting places that can be reached by boat. Ask anyone who has experienced a sailing vacation and they will no doubt tell you that in today’s jet powered, computerized world, sailing offers an interesting combination of excitement and relaxation. I highly recommend it to all that seek a fun vacation. In fact, not only can a sailboat transport you to another place; it could be a vehicle to take you to another time!

WAIT…NOT YET THE END

I returned to Hawaii in February of 1984. This time I had the opportunity to sail with two delightful hosts, Vince Kelly, and Junita Oros on a boat called “Mid Night Sun.” In addition to taking me back to some of my favorite places, they showed me some interesting places that I had not visited before.

At the beginning of this cruise, I told my new shipmates the story of my trip aboard Super Star in 1982. This helped prime all of us for what was to come. However, it did not prepare me for what would happen at Lahaina.

Approaching our anchorage to the west of Lahaina, I saw a vision that made me think that I may have been in the sun too long. I am looking at Super Star! This cannot be possible, I am thinking–am I to believe my eyes? After all, I saw pictures of Super Star after her demise. Fortunately, the others with me see her too. Thanks to the fine work of a man named Gary Shipp, (that’s really his name) Super Star lives again. Gary purchased the damaged Super Star and rebuilt her.

Later in the evening, we make contact with Gary. I told him that several months before she went aground I had spent 10 great days sailing aboard her. To the delight of everyone, we are invited on aboard to inspect his restoration job.

Just being aboard Super Star again brings forth a flood of happy memories. I am amazed at the fine restoration job Gary did. To me it seems fitting that a boat Rob once called “the pride of the Hawaiian fleet” is in such good hands. Gary is a very pleasant person and is a wonderful host aboard his boat.

The crowing glory came as we were leaving. In honor of my being a Super Star alumnus, I was given a coffee cup that has Super Star embossed in gold letters on the side.

I feel that Gary would be a good skipper and a good host for the Ocean Voyages charter program so I encourage him to contact them and again make Super Star available. If he does then maybe, just maybe I will have the opportunity to sail aboard her again.

Oh yes one last bit of unfinished business. Remember the “mice” in my drawer back at the first anchorage. Well the sound I was hearing that sounded like mice scurrying around in my “chocolate drawer” was actually made by shrimp eating the sea growth from the hull of the boat. I had never experienced that sound before. When I found out what it really was, I felt a little foolish about trying to capture mice that were not even there. Honest guys, it did sound like mice!

Aloha,

Jim Sayers
1982

Sailing the Islands of HAWAII
Aboard
Super Star
A GulfStar-50 Sailboat
By Jim Sayers
July 2^nd ‑16^th, 1982

…The Adventure Begins …

When I was a kid growing up in Michigan, I use to read books about the sea and the many exciting places where one could sail. I would often dream of sailing away to an exotic island that held the promised of great adventure. One day, with the prompting of a good friend, Susan Alexander, and a worldwide charter organiza­tion, Ocean Voyages, my dream became a reality. This Log is the story of a novice sailor and the ten fun days of adven­ture he shared with his shipmates as they sailed the warm tropical paradise known as the Hawaiian Islands.

Day 1 ‑ Friday, July 2nd

Its late afternoon and we have just arrived at a beautiful sun filled cove where we will anchor for the night. Above me, the loud voices of the crew signal the excitement of our arrival so I hurry topside to see what could invoke such a reaction. The soft afternoon sunlight reveals a landscape of lush green landscape still untouched by man and a gentle sea breeze softly caresses my skin as it flows into the billowing white sails. Below the boat, the turquoise ocean is like a liquid gemstone in constant rhythmic movement against the shore. We waste little time dropping the anchor then secure the boat for an overnight stay. The drone of the crashing surf on the beach adds to the relaxation of the rocking sail­boat, but everyone finds a sudden burst of energy at the prospect of snorkeling in such a magnificent setting.

The next order of business is to choose someone to remain on the boat to help insure the safety of those in the water. The captain produces the duty roster and the name at the top is mine. Rats, Like it or not, I will have to stand the first watch.

I look on with envy as my shipmates adjust their snorkel equipment then plunge into the clear water. I peer into the water to watch the others head for a coral reef about 100 yards away. Alone on the deck I feel like a jilted groom left standing at the altar. I really wish I were out there with them.

Suddenly, my spirits improve when it occurs to me that I can take a quick dip to cool off then climb back aboard before anyone even knows I was in the water. No one can see me so I take a deep breath and dive. The water has the desired cooling effect upon me as I glide effortlessly toward the bottom of this beautiful aquatic world. The pastel blue and green watercolors fill my senses and add another dimension to this underwater paradise, but before I can climb back aboard to resume my post, I see someone swimming toward me. From this distance, I cannot tell who it is, but it does not matter. It is just my luck to be caught goofing off while I am supposed to be keeping an eye on things. Maybe I will have to walk the plank for leaving my post.

My cavalier attitude quickly changes when the clear water allows me to recognize the unmistakable shape of a shark. I had seen the Hollywood versions of shark encounters and there were times when I had thought about just such a moment as this, but I am truly not pre­pared to deal with the menacing specter of the approaching shark. What do I do now? The thought that I should not be diving alone crosses my mind, but it is a little late for that now.

I may be a city boy, but with that shark heading toward me, I know that I must get out of the water. The situation is rapidly becoming even more desperate as the tightness in my chest signals that I also have an urgent need for air. I think about trying to sig­nal the others, but they are too far away to help me. No time to dwell upon it, I must have air so I head for the surface.

Fear prevents me from taking my eyes off the shark–even for a second. With my total concentration on the shark, I crash headfirst into the bottom of the boat. I become disoriented and there is a loud buzzing in my ears. Is this the way it is going to end for me?

The approaching shark and everything else around me begins to fade rapidly as the buzzing fills my ears. In my lightheaded condition, I realize that my options are few so I decide to do what anyone in my situation would no doubt do–I reach over and turn off the alarm.

Through two squinting eyes, I glance over at the clock and manage to see that it is 5:30 in the morning. The events of my dream have my heart beating rapidly as I drag myself out of bed and stumble to the shower. The dream is still fresh in my mind so I inspect the showerhead for signs of shark activity. In a few hours, I will be in Hawaii sailing among the islands the wonderful tropical paradise–my dreams of adventure will turn real.

The Real Thing

The jumbo jet roars down the runway and leaps into the cold San Francisco fog as we begin the search for the warm breezes of Hawaii. The spirits of everyone on board are already higher than the plane will ever get. Four minutes into the flight, the Farallon Islands appear below us. They are located 26 miles off the San Fran­cisco coast. It is said that the largest collection of Great White Sharks in the world to be around this island. They are attracted by the large heard of sea lions living in on the islands. Sadly, several years ago the Government dumped radioactive waste material in the water close to the shores of these islands and some people claim that the fish in the area actually glow in the dark. I hope the return flight is at night so I can see if this is true. Okay, what I really hope is that the marine life around these islands is not adversely affected. Dumping radioactive waste here was a foolish act of man.

HAWAII

The in‑flight movie is not quite over when I feel our flying theater slow and start its controlled fall from the sky. I raise the shade, and to my delight, I see Honolulu below. Because I am sitting on the right side of the plane, I have an excellent view of Waikiki Beach. From my vantage point, the island of Oahu (OH‑WAH‑WHO) looks like a sparkling green gemstone set in the blue Pacific Ocean. I will soon know that ocean a little better.

I am amazed that the real water looks even better than the water I conjured up in my dream. I stare at the island below and I wonder if somewhere among all the people down there is a person about 4 feet 6 inches tall ringing a bell and yelling “Da Plane-‑Da Plane.” (Sorry, my mind just works that way.) The captain in­ter­rupts my thoughts with the announcement that Honolulu is directly below us. This brings on cheering and applause from the passengers and makes the flight seem more like a sporting event than an airplane ride.

Waikiki Beach

I spend the first two days relaxing at the world famous Waikiki Beach. I do my best to avoid acting like a tourist, but I finally give in to the routine of taking pictures of the sights (mostly of the bikini-clad girls on the beach.) Finally, it is time to fly to the island of Molokai where I will join the 50-foot sailing vessel, Super Star to begin the cruise around the Islands.

Within three minutes of calling a cab, it arrives. The driver is extremely knowledgeable about the island and he keeps up a run­ning commentary as we roll through the heavy Honolulu traffic. I told him I was in a hurry to get to the airport and apparently; he has taken it to heart. From my back seat view, it appears that we are about to set a world speed record from Waikiki Beach to the Honolulu Airport. If we arrive in one piece, there will be a nice tip for this fellow. In the blur outside the window of the speeding cab, I notice that parts of Honolulu look just like any other big city. This is disappointing to me because I only want to see paradise. Sadly, before my encounter with Hawaii is over, I will learn that the early explorers and the missionaries almost destroyed these beautiful islands and the wonderful people who lived in childlike happiness here. Leave it to man to screw up a natural Paradise.

I came to Hawaii to sail, but once again I am in an airplane. This time my destination is the island of Molokai (MO‑­LO‑­KI‑­E) and my rendez­vous with Super Star. As we taxi out for takeoff a voice comes over the public address system. “Our flight time to Molokai is twenty minutes. “Your Captain today is Fred Sorenson. He may look familiar to you if you saw the movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Well how about that–he is indeed the same person who flew the plane in the movie. The jungle scenes were filmed on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai. (KA-WHY-EE)

The flight from Oahu to Molokai is only 20 minutes so we stay low. When we reach Molokai we are flying very low, and it seems like we are actually following a dirt road. To the delight of everyone on board, Captain Sorenson keeps us enter­tained as he describes the passing scene below. Like school kids on their first field trip, many people have their noses pressed against the windows of the plane. They are in awe of this unique opportunity. No doubt, this is the first time many of them have flown so close to the ground. I am having a great time and it occurs to me that this would be a fantastic way to see all of the Islands. Suddenly we are on the ground and I cannot recall a shorter 20 minutes in my life.

Molokai

My instructions are to rendezvous with Super Star at the dock in Kaunakakai. (Pronounced KA‑NA‑KA‑KI) It should be easy because ground transportation to the dock was pre-arranged by Ocean Voyages before I left California. However, once I get into the terminal it does take me a while to figure out my next move. I wander around for a bit not sure whom I am to contact, but while I am wandering, a very large Hawaiian man approaches me and asks, “Are you Jim Sears?” “Jim Sayers,” I quickly correct. “Mr. Sayers, I have been hired to take you to the harbor. Your boat is Super Star, no?” I pause for a moment; surprised to hear my name spoken by someone I have never met before in a place that I have never been before. “Why yes, yes it is,” I reply. I am impressed that he knows about the boat and he knows me. I am also quite impressed at how Ocean Voyages has made the connections so easy for me. The large man picks up my heavy bag as if it was empty and instructs me to follow him to the van parked outside. Now my only concern is, how will I locate Super Star among all the yachts in the harbor?

Inside the van, I quickly realize that I am riding with the same people that were aboard my flight. Everyone except for me is going to the Sheraton Hotel. (The largest hotel on Molokai) Without prompting, the driver provides a mini tour of the sights we are passing. However, at one point, we have four cars in front of our van and the driver is beside him­self because of the “traffic jam”. Is this guy for real? Everyone in the van is in hysterics because of his reaction to only four cars. I ask him if he has ever been to the mainland and he tells me that he has not. Then with an almost strange sense of pride, he also tells us that he has never even been to any of the other Hawaiian Islands. It is hard for those of us who just traveled thousands of miles to be in Hawaii to under­stand why this man (in his late 30’s) has never even ventured the short distance to Honolulu. As my odyssey unfolds, I will encounter several Hawaiian people who have never been off the island of their birth. I guess when you live in paradise there’s just no need to go elsewhere.

As we drive past the lush green fields, I tell our driver and the others that I am from California. I explain that my reason for coming to the island of Molokai is to join up with a boat called Super Star to cruise around the Hawaiian Islands. The driver seems more interested in where I am from than where I am going. He asks me what it is like to live in California. In an obvious joking manner, I suggest to him that for a real thrill he should visit Los Angeles and find out. This comment starts the others laughing again. I enjoy getting them to laugh, but I cannot believe I just told this poor man to do that. Why would I tell anyone to visit Los Angeles let alone someone who is doing me a favor and cannot even deal with four cars? What would he ever do in Los Angeles?

The town of Kaunakakai looks much like a typical small American town. However, the dock is a different story. Except for two boats, it is completely deserted and to me, it feels like one of the most remote places on the planet. I laugh aloud when I recall my earlier concern about finding Super Star among the “hundreds of yachts.” At this point, I come to the stark realization that I understand little of what I am actually about to face and I feel very much alone.

Super Star

In person, Super Star is even more impressive than the pic­tures I had seen of her. I stand there in a trance like state for a moment. While I am looking at the boat and the ocean, the “limo” driver grabs my attention with, “that will be ten dollars for the ride.” After a quick check of my wallet, I inform him that, in cash, all I have is nine dollars, but I do have a folder full of $50.00 traveler’s checks if he has change. With a slightly pained look on his face he replies, “Okay, the fare will be nine dollars.” How comforting it is to discover that I have arrived in Paradise on bargain day. This is paradise–right?

With a snappy “aloha” and a famous Hawaiian smile, the driver jumps back into the van and zooms away. During the drive, I told the people in the van about the cruise. I am not surprised at the look of envy I see in the eyes of the others as they stare back at the sailboat and me. A man in his early sixties gives me a “thumbs up” and a big smile. I can tell that he wishes he were going with me. His wife smiles too, but no doubt she is happy to be going to a hotel on dry land that has big beds and tourist shops.

I stand there staring at Super Star while a brisk gust of wind swirls around me. Looking out at the ocean I see it boiling with big waves and white caps. A fifty­-foot boat is by far the largest sailboat that I have ever sailed, but it seems so tiny against the backdrop of the ocean. Am I really going to get on this boat and go out on that ocean? I came here seeking an adventure, and judging from what I see; it looks like I will get exactly what I came for.

I approach the boat but I do not see anyone. I wonder if there is a proper procedure for going aboard. To my delight a suntanned figure emerges from below deck and I quickly decide on a simple “Hi, my name is Jim.” “Oh yes, Jim Sayers, my name is Rob Barrell,” he replies. It is certainly uncanny how the people I meet on this island seem to know me. “Pass me your bag and climb aboard,” he says. “I’ll show you your home for the next ten days.” Ten days ‑ now I am convinced I am off the deep end. (Pun totally intended.)

Below deck, I meet Bill O’Donnell. Like me, Bill is taking his first cruise aboard a sailboat and he will be sharing the aft cabin with me for the duration of the cruise. My immediate feeling is that in the close quarters of the boat I will get along well with Bill. As it turns out, he is a very pleasant shipmate with a good sense of humor. Poor guy, he will need that sense of humor to put up with my endless string of jokes for the next 10 days.

I inspect my new home then go topside when I hear a car pull alongside the boat. A woman in her forties hands her sea bag to Rob then climbs aboard. She is sporting a pleasant smile, and introduces herself as Mae Silver. She is from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and it is immediately obvious that she too will be an outstanding shipmate.

Last, but not least, I meet Linda Lopez, our cook and first mate. She is a “vision of loveliness.” She is wearing baggy pants and her hair is wet because she has just come from taking a shower. When Bill remarks about how happy she looks, she tells us that in a few days we will all come to understand the simple joy of a fresh water shower on a humid tropical island.

Rob finishes helping us get the rest of our gear aboard then announces that this is the group for the voyage and we are ready to depart. Only five of us–five people on a fifty-foot boat. This is indeed going to be paradise. Well, on the other hand, my shipmates have not heard my first joke yet.

The Shopping Trip

Rob reminds us that we will be traveling for 10 days. Everyone seems to feel that is a long time to be away from the corner store so we all decide to walk about a mile into the town of Kaunakakai to do some last minute shopping. While we are walking toward town, a car pulls up alongside us. The driver asks us if we would like a lift. Mae tells us she knows the gentleman driving. He is introduced to us as David–Father David, a Catholic Priest on temporary assignment to the island of Molokai to fill in for the regular Priest who is on vacation. Hmmm… He looks too young to be a Priest.

In Kaunakakai, we start playing tourist. We walk from one end of the town to the other. That is a short three-minute journey. Along the way, we stop in front of the Catholic Church and Father David indulges us by letting us take pictures with him at his place of employment. At this point, I am still not convinced he is a Priest, but he is for sure a fun guy. After the big photo session, we walk into a store and shop for the “few” last minute things we think are important.

Shopping Frenzy

Once inside the store, all of us (except Father David) are caught-up in a wild shopping frenzy. It is as if we have come under some strange spell. When I get to the check-out counter, I have a pair of Hawaiian sandals that Linda assures me I will need, five candy bars, three bags of M&M’s and a half a dozen packages of gum. I also have an ice cream bar that has begun melting down my arm. I look at the others and their story is just about the same. I cannot believe what is going on here. All I wanted to do was to buy some gum. Can it be that each of us secretly feels that we may not be coming back to civilization again? We are all standing there laden down with our “few” last minute items, and everyone begins laughing like crazy at this.

With our new purchases in hand, we head to the car, but we don’t quite make it. We discover one more store to ransack. However, this time we are much more controlled. I buy a can of pop and a visor for my sunglasses that has “Hawaii 82” stamped on it. Another visor has the saying “Born Again Virgin” printed on it. I hold this up to show Father David, and in a totally serious tone he loudly exclaims, “that’s not possible!” Maybe this guy is a Priest after all.

When we get back to Super Star, we invite Father David on board our floating home to check it out. Before coming aboard we take off our walking shoes so we will not scuff the deck of Super Star. It is in that moment that I become convinced Father David is a Priest. It is hard to imagine any­one except a Priest (or maybe a CIA Agent) wearing shoes like that in Hawaii.

Father David and I may not wear the same kind of shoes, but like me, he is quite impressed with Super Star. I ask him if he would bless our voyage, and (while making the sign of the cross) he immediately provides a truly appropriate blessing. Then after a short pause he holds out his hand and jokes, “that will be twenty dollars.” Everyone, including Father David is laughing at this. Yes Virginia, Father David really is a Priest. He is also a very nice person. We thank him for his help and his blessing then bid him farewell.

The Briefing

Before casting off for 10 days, Rob gives us a complete safety briefing. We also examine the navigational charts to get an idea of where we will be going. We find out that we will begin our journey by crossing the Kalohi (KA‑LO‑HE) channel to the island of Lanai. It does not take us long to find out why Kalohi is the Hawaiian word for rascal.

The briefing is completed and our departure for the island of Lanai is at hand. However, before we can depart we have a slight problem to overcome. Super Star is held hard against the dock by a driving wind and waves, and that means it will be hard to move off the dock. If we are to get underway, we must pull ourselves away from the dock using the anchor. In anticipation of this, Rob has set the anchor about 25 yards off the windward side of the boat. I am the biggest person on board so Rob chooses me to do the crank­ing. (Big people are usually always chosen to do this kind of thing.) On Rob’s command, I start cranking and the boat begins to move slowly toward the anchor. Linda, Mae and Bill cast off lines and push against the dock while Rob uses the engine to guide us away from the dock. With a final burst of energy, I get the anchor up and we glide free of the dock. I am exhausted from cranking and I realize that I am not in very good physical condition. When does the “relaxing” cruise actually get relaxing?

I am really anxious to experience my first sailing adventure on the ocean, but I have some concerns about taking on this aggressive channel. Rob gave us an excellent briefing and handled the boat very well leaving the dock, and I feel confident that he knows what he is doing and I relax behind that. The un­certainty about my first encounter with the sea begins to melt away.

We motor around to the calmer lee side of the dock to finish stow­ing the loose gear. We close all the hatches and I quickly discover that once they are closed it gets very hot below. Like people fleeing a house a fire, we all retreat topside to seek the comfort of the cool ocean breeze. I don’t really under­stand why we even bother closing the hatches. This is a big boat and the hatches are high above the water. My lack of inexperience with ocean sailing is clearly showing. My previous sailing was all on San Francisco bay, so I was not yet aware why one would want the hatches closed. I would soon find out why.

Finally, everything is ship shape (if you will pardon the expression) and we are ready to go. Rob engages the engine and we begin to move slowly toward the open sea. Our first task is to hoist the sails. As soon as they are set, they fill with wind and we make the transition from motorboat to sailboat.

Over the sound of the wind and the engine Rob yells; “Does anyone want to drive the boat?” Since much of my motivation to take this trip came from my desire to enhance my sailing skills so I yell out, “I do” and I move quickly to get be­hind the wheel. Immediately, I notice how good it feels in my hands. I am pleasantly surprised at the respon­siveness of Super Star.

With the sails up Super Star leans to the side—a normal condition with a sailboat. It’s called “heeling over.” Now I really do not mind “heeling over,” but about the same time we begin to heal, we are being hit with waves that must be 20 feet tall. Oh boy this is fun–I think! Holding the wheel is a mixed blessing. On the one hand, I do have something to hold on to, but what am I supposed to do with it? I glance over at Rob; my eyes asking for some guidance, but all I get from him is a reassuring smile as he slowly sips some Guava Juice. I smile back, but behind the smile, I feel unsure about my current situa­tion. It is clear that Rob is on top of things so I relax a bit. In five years, I will become a Captain, but for now, I am in dire need of guidance.

The waves hit us broadside and it seems to me that each one is a little bigger than the one before. Most of them are only about six to eight feet with an occasional 12 footer thrown in for good measure, but to me they all look 20 feet tall. I know that this is Bill’s first cruise too and I watch him for a minute to see how he is doing. To my surprise, he is smiling. Mae is smiling too. I start smiling again and I even manage to hold my smile as I watch another wave approach Super Star. I sure hope this boat lives up to her name.

Window to the Sea

For two hours, I fight the sea and much of time the starboard side (for you land lubbers, that is the right side) of the boat is in the water. It is a good thing we closed the windows and the hatches before we left because half the time they are under water. OK, that’s it; I want to look at the sales brochure again. I do not recall it saying anything about sailing with the windows under water! My hands are getting blisters and I feel a little foolish about that because, just below deck in my cabin I have a brand new pair of sailing gloves. I bought them to prevent getting blisters. I keep thinking that I should go down below and get them, but with the hatches closed, it is hot down there. Besides, there is no way I am going to let go of this wheel.

Lanai

Linda finishes serving the first of many snacks then she offers to take the helm. A while back I thought there was no way I was going to let go of the wheel, but now I’m thankful for Linda’s offer because I am really tired from fighting the waves. If I had more experience in these conditions, I would not be getting so beat up by the sea.

After having a snack, I find that sitting is just too passive for me. The challenge of steer­ing Super Star is wonderful so I decide to go back to the helm. soon we are approaching to the shore of Lanai and I begin to feel a bit uncomfortable about maybe get­ting too close. I ask Rob for some guidance in choosing a course, and after looking around, he tells me that I am steering the correct course. This makes me feel good and I actually relax a bit. Clearly, Rob must be a great skipper if he thinks I am doing such a good job.

We round the West Coast of the Island of Lanai and that means that I have just made my first open ocean crossing. Okay, it’s not like sailing around the world, but it is a milestone for me. I feel good about the accomplishment, but I am really exhausted from fight­ing the ocean for such a long time. I am happy to hand the helm to Rob so he can guide us into a safe anchorage.

In the Lee of Lanai

We are safely at anchor in a beautiful cove, and now it is time to think about food. I am exhausted from my time at the wheel so I decide to take a pass on dinner. Instead, I stay on deck and drink in my sur­round­ings. Right now, that is more refreshing to me than eating. I am tired, but I am also floating on air. The beauty of the island and the power of the sea have me completely in awe. The trip is already more enjoyable than I had ever imagined it would be.

After dinner, I invite everyone to come up on deck so I can make the first of several tape recordings. The recordings will help me remember the events of the trip and give me the opportunity to learn more about my new shipmates. I am so pleased that everyone seems to be such a good sport about having a microphone thrust into his or her face. After I review the results of our first recording session, I am glad that I decided to bring the recorder.

I learn from Bill that this is his first experience on a sail­boat, and he tells me that he had some concerns about “going to sea.” I have more sailing experience than Bill so I am impressed at how quickly he has adapted to living aboard this tiny boat. On the other hand, Mae has been on several ocean voyages before and it shows. I can see that she is no stranger to a sailboat, and although I never tell her, I am envious of her sailing exploits.

After the recording session, we listen to the results and have a good laugh about it. I am extremely delighted to find out that Rob knows so much about the history and geography of the islands and that he is so articulate. Through the recordings, I will be able to relive this experience repeatedly.

The Night and the Sea

In Hawaii, everything is beautiful, but the Sunsets are magnificent. Our final act of the day is to watch the sunset then we go below and prepare for bed. As soon as I lay down, I discover that my bed is moving! How does one sleep when ones bed is moving? I am very tired, but the moving bed is such a strange ex­perience that I wake up several times during the night. Every time I wake up, I poke my head out of the hatch above my bunk and look around. Now that may seem a bit odd, but we are at anchor only about 30 yards from some large jagged rocks and I can hear the wind howling through the shrouds. I can also hear the thunder of the surf crashing against the rocks. I am somewhat concerned about what I perceive to be a potential danger here. One time when I stick my head out the hatch, I see Rob looking around and surveying the situation from another hatch. He seems to be satisfied with everything so I return to my pitching bunk and rest easier. Although I have not been with Rob long, I can tell that he is an excellent skipper.

My Kingdom for A Mouse Trap

It is pitch black in my cabin and there is something-strange going on. It sounds like mice are scampering around in the same drawer where I have stashed my candy bars. Several times I jump up and quickly pull open the drawer thinking that I will surprise them. Unfortunately, I am the one who is surprised. How do they manage to get away so fast? Finally, I am just too tired to care anymore. If those mice want to eat my candy, I hope they all get cavities.

In the morning, Rob tells me that there are no mice anywhere on the boat. Well now, if there are no mice, then what was last night’s drawer pulling drill all about? For now, I will not tell you what I was hearing. If you do not already know, keep reading–I will tell you in part-II what I was hearing.

*** END PART–1***
Sailing the Islands of Hawaii by Jim Sayers
July 2nd‑16th, 1982

 

 …Click Here for Part-2