Iulai, 2020
On July 7th, 1981, (before we even had a hut on the beach to call our own), we took a card table, a good idea, and some beach gear, and opened up operations at Anaeho'omalu Bay. Though we sure couldn't have predicted that 39 years later we'd be commemorating our anniversary with pandemic-related suspended operations, today we are happy to report that things are slowly and safely reopening in Hawaii!

Since our June newsletter:

  • The State of Hawaii DLNR/Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation has reissued our commercial vessel operating permits, which means we're allowed to run our cruises again. Initially, we were limited to carrying a maximum of 10 people aboard any boat, and that number included our Captain and 2 crew. On June 29th, the State adjusted this passenger count rule to "not exceed 50% of rated capacity" provided operations are conducted under the COVID-19 "Act with Care" guidelines covering physical distancing, staffing, hygiene, and cleaning and disinfecting protocols.
  • The State of Hawaii has eliminated the mandatory 14 day quarantine for inter-island travelers.
  • Beginning August 1st, the State is planning to implement a program under which anyone arriving to Hawaii can avoid a mandatory 14 day quarantine by presenting proof of negative results on a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival, and presenting no symptoms upon arrival.

So, how does all this affect Ocean Sports?

Well, since the passenger count rule change allowing us to carry 50% of our vessel capacity wasn't announced until late on June 29th, we haven't yet reopened for charter operations. And, though we have heard from many of you that you'd love to pay us a visit, we're still unsure how many people will choose to travel to the Big Island once the mandatory quarantine program changes go into effect. When we begin seeing requests to operate, we'll do our best to provide you with the award-winning Snorkel, Sunset, Seasonal Whale Watching, Glass Bottom Boat, and Beach Activities you've enjoyed since 1981...though initially, cruise availability will be on a limited schedule.

Over the 39 years we've been in business, we've shared innumerable fun adventures and have had the privilege to establish so many wonderful relationships with so many wonderful people. Besides getting to share our love of all-things-ocean with both kama'aina and visitors, we've provided career and educational opportunities for lots and lots of Big Island folks. We want you to know that we appreciate each and every one of you...and we appreciate your patience as we work behind the scenes to re-open.

While our operations remain suspended, if you want to contact us, the best way is via email. Though our entire crew has been furloughed, we'll do our best to reply as soon as we can.

We'll also continue to keep the conversations going via our facebook page. If you're not a facebook user, check for updates on our website, and of course, check your inbox for e-newsletters from us. We'll be sure to let you know what's happening with us as soon as we can.

We appreciate all of the emails and supportive comments you've sent our way over the past couple of months, and we really look forward to getting back to doing what we do best -- sharing exceptional ocean experiences and adventures with each and every one of you!

Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this situation.

Malama Kekahi I Kekahi (Take Care of One Another),

Your Ocean Sports 'Ohana