09-17-2007, 03:41 PM
Shane, It's commendable that you're seeking input about your proposed adventure tour. You're correct that Pohoiki Bay is a State small boat harbor. There are even "no swimming" signs posted. (sometimes)
The County of Hawaii is putting in a four million dollar park set to open in October. As far as I know, they have no plans for lifeguards as that would admit some degree of liability.
With all this being said, I can see a couple of potential problems for your tour. One is that Pohoiki is the only spot in lower Puna with good access to swimming, diving and surfing. I think any efforts by the state to limit these activities would meet with protests that would shame Kaua'i's valiant protests against the superferry. The relationship between swimmers and fishermen is working, but in my opinion, very dangerous. "Boat, Boat, Boat" everyone shouts when a fisherman brings his boat in. It's up to the swimmers (mostly children) to get out of the way.
The second potential problem is manuvering a 34 foot boat in the tiny harbor. With good conditions and no swimmers it shouldn't be too difficult, but with any complications it could be disasterous.
The district needs a separate harbor for boats, and until that happens I would suggest sticking with your "six pack" tours. Good luck and Aloha, Greg
The County of Hawaii is putting in a four million dollar park set to open in October. As far as I know, they have no plans for lifeguards as that would admit some degree of liability.
With all this being said, I can see a couple of potential problems for your tour. One is that Pohoiki is the only spot in lower Puna with good access to swimming, diving and surfing. I think any efforts by the state to limit these activities would meet with protests that would shame Kaua'i's valiant protests against the superferry. The relationship between swimmers and fishermen is working, but in my opinion, very dangerous. "Boat, Boat, Boat" everyone shouts when a fisherman brings his boat in. It's up to the swimmers (mostly children) to get out of the way.
The second potential problem is manuvering a 34 foot boat in the tiny harbor. With good conditions and no swimmers it shouldn't be too difficult, but with any complications it could be disasterous.
The district needs a separate harbor for boats, and until that happens I would suggest sticking with your "six pack" tours. Good luck and Aloha, Greg