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Whale Watching Is for Everyone!

by Charlie Doremus and Ellie Ferri

While we were writing this story with the thought of submitting it to “The Braille Forum” to share with other people who are blind, most of our country was covered by a blanket of white, and wistful thoughts of warmth filled the minds of many of you. Huddled around blazing fireplaces from coast to coast, discussions of winter vacations warmed the frosted air. Of the thousands of vacation spots across this great land of ours, few people who are blind or visually impaired may have thought of Hawaii as a viable destination, especially if they use guide dogs.

However, over the past several years, changes regarding Hawaii’s quarantine laws have made it far easier to bring your pups to the islands. Information regarding requirements set forth by the state of Hawaii can be obtained by visiting www.acb.org/Hawaii or by contacting the ACB national office.

Nestled in Honolulu harbor sits the Aloha Tower Marketplace, a conglomeration of shops and restaurants. Aloha Tower, once the tallest structure in Hawaii, serves as the centerpiece for an area of Honolulu first viewed by travelers arriving in the islands during the bygone era of the steamship. Presently, Aloha Tower Marketplace is home port to the Norwegian star cruise ship and several dinner cruise/whale watch vessels.

Chief among the dinner cruise/whale watch vessels is the majestic Star of Honolulu, operated by Paradise Cruises Limited. Since 1957, Paradise Cruises (www.paradisecruises.com) has offered sunset dinner cruises, coastal cruises, weddings at sea and other sea-going adventures. Their two-vessel fleet, which includes the Starlet, can accommodate from 30 to 1,500 guests at any given time.

As disabled people who have been interested in travel and tourism long before moving to Hawaii, we were recently invited aboard the Star of Honolulu to experience the morning coastal whale watch cruise. Paradise Cruises prides itself on being fully in accord with ADA regulations and was willing to show off its vessel so that we might pass on to others the fact that Hawaii is truly a vacation destination for everyone, including people with visual, mobility or other disabilities. The Star of Honolulu and its staff are fully prepared to serve as gracious hosts to all, whether they arrive at the dock in a wheelchair, with white cane, walking cane or guide dog. Arrangements can be made in advance to suit any situation.

From January through April, the Hawaiian Islands are the winter home of humpback whales. Scores of locals and visitors head to the open Pacific to watch these graceful mammals forage for food and raise their young. Millions have watched in awe as these huge animals breech and send ocean spray skyward. The Star of Honolulu, through its “Hawaiiana Deluxe Whale Watch Cruises,” affords all comers the opportunity to experience the thrill of whale watching, whether they watch with their eyes or a combination of extra-visual senses. Aboard The Star of Honolulu, visitors are treated to a two-and-a-half-hour cruise along Oahu’s south shore past Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. As you cruise along, you will be introduced to a bit of Hawaii’s culture and learn about local food, music and arts and crafts.

After leaving the harbor, passengers are treated to traditional Hawaiian music, chants and hula. The staff and crew are fully trained in Hawaiiana and are eager to answer your questions and teach just a few aspects of Hawaiian life. Among the activities on board, you might want to learn to play the ukulele or dance the hula with the hands-on assistance of the shipboard Kumu (instructor), or perhaps you’ll want to learn to make your own fresh flower lei to wear with pride for the rest of the day.

As a soft sea breeze fills your lungs, you can wander toward the bow of the ship and indulge in a spectacular local-style Hawaiian buffet. Experience the unique tastes of poi, lomi lomi salmon, or the local island favorite, Loco Moco. To compliment these ono (delicious) foods there will be bread (poi and macadamia nut), salads and drinks. The staff will assist you in every way to make your dining easy and safe. If you want, they can describe all the different foods and help fill your plate with a taste of Hawaii.

Afterwards there will be ample time to explore the 232-foot ship. Stop at the bar for a refreshing tropical drink and climb to the fourth deck, accessible by stairs or elevator, and feel the wind against your face and the smell of salt air. The Super Nova Deck is an excellent spot for picture taking and allows for a panoramic view, all the while keeping an ear out for the captain’s announcement of “Whales off the port bow.”

As with all good things, sadly the cruise must end. As the “Star” slips back into her berth, the crew will prepare to disembark all guests. Assistance will be offered and you will be returned safely to shore

Our visit with the staff and crew of “The Star of Honolulu” was wonderful. We were treated with respect; they were courteous, friendly and willing to assist us in every way. We felt right at home as part of the “Ohana” (family) and treated to a great trip. This cruise is suitable for all, young or old, blind or sighted. All areas of the vessel are accessible; the passageways, gangways and elevators are wide enough for those in wheelchairs or using walkers. The staff is there to assist without being patronizing. A fantastic time is waiting, so come on board.

Our “Mahalos” (thanks) go out to project manager Kamla Fukushima, Gordon Oliveira, Guest Services Manager and Kumu “cousin” Gordon for their help.

For information and reservations call (808) 983-STAR (7827). To arrange for private charters, call (808) 983-7884, or toll- free (800) 334-6191; fax (808) 983-7780. Or you may visit the web site, www.paradisecruises.com.