ala wai yacht club

• ANAEHOOMALU BAY
• HILO HARBOR
• HONOKOHAU HARBOR
• KAILUA PIER
• KAWAIHAE HARBOR
• KEAUHOU HARBOR
• POHOIKI BAY
• WAILOA HARBOR
• HANALEI BAY & PIER
• KIKIAOLA HARBOR
• KUKUIULA HARBOR
• NAWILIWILI HARBOR
• PORT ALLEN HARBOR
• KAUMALAPAU HARBOR
• MANELE HARBOR
• HANA HARBOR
• KAHULUI HARBOR
• Whale Watching
• MAALAEA HARBOR
• MALA WHARF
• SAIL KAANAPALI
• HALE O LONO HARBOR
• KAUNAKAKAI HARBOR
• ALA WAI HARBOR
• BARBERS POINT
• HALEIWA HARBOR
• HEEIA KEA HARBOR
• HONOLULU HARBOR
• KALAELOA HARBOR
• KEEHI LAGOON
• KEWALO BASIN
• KO OLINA HARBOR
• PEARL HARBOR
• RAINBOW BAY MARINA
• SAIL WAIKIKI
• WAIANAE HARBOR

Race Committee

WYC's races are run by our all-volunteer Race Committee. They're the folks who you see on the little bobbing boat anchored at the right end of the start line, valiantly keeping time with the official sandglass, raising signal flags in the correct sequence and sounding the horn to alert sailors to the countdown time, all while holding on with two hands. After the races, they may be found huddled over laptop computers, entering finishing times in to the algorithm that determines the day's winner and who's buying drinks all around. If you’re interested in helping out with race committee contact [email protected] Regatta Chairman:  John Climaldi Principal Race Officer:  John Climaldi Photographer:  Contact Carolyn Majewski [email protected] Volunteers: Sean Doyle Gary Evoniuk Hideki Hayashi Michael Roth Michael Rothwell Ian Rothwell Jim Maynard Steve Thomas Megan McDonald Andrew Mead Philip Katzman Be sure to say mahalo to them when you see them around our club. They are the ones who set the course, the start and finish lines, and who keep the time to deliver great racing.

WYC Regattas

ADULT SAILING LESSONS ON WYC CAL 20s 

We are very fortunate to have Gary Evoniuk at the helm. He is a former RC-Sail and now serving on the Board as a Director. Gary is also in charge of the Club's Cal-20 Adult Sailing Program. With this great program, maybe it’s time for you to join the fun on the water!

Sign up for training on one of the Cub’s Cal 20's. Gary is happy to work with you to provide a custom program or a single lesson to get your feet wet. The cost is reasonable so reach out to Gary as he can join interested parties to bring the cost down further.  [email protected]

Following completion of the course and/or certification for those who already have sufficient sailing expertise, you can charter a Cal 20 for either a half-day or full-day. 

The Club’s basic sailing program is about 12 hours. It consists of four three-hour lessons on the water off Waikiki and Diamond Head. Topics covered in these classes include: seamanship, terminology, knot-tying, rules of the road, navigation, and boat maintenance.

Friday Night "Beer Can" Races

Along with more competitive weekend regattas, Friday night races are a time honored tradition at the Waikiki Yacht Club. Members gather around 4pm at the Club to enjoy the "Beer Can" race out of the Ala Wai Harbor, racing to either Diamond Head Buoy or a mark off of Honolulu Harbor.   We are updating our "crew finder" page so check back here soon for sailors looking to connect with captains who may be looking for crew.  The best way to get involved with sailboat racing is to look into the possibility of joining a yacht or sailing club. Many crews are recruited from members who get to know each other through club activities. Membership information for WYC is available by calling the Club's central number: 808 955-4405.

Club Trophies

Deed of Gift

The Buchanan Trophy may be awarded to an individual who over a period of years has consistently given freely of their time and talents to the Club on a continuing basis. They have done this without expectation of recognition or reward. Their efforts make it possible to carry out the mission of the Club. This award is given to honor the recipient and to express appreciation for all they have given over the years.

This award is made annually. No person is to receive this award more than one time. In the event that no one qualifies it may be skipped for the year. The selection is to be made by a committee named by the Commodore.

Sailing Trophies

2011                Ikaika                          Tony Miller

2010                Heartbeat                    James McDowell

2009                Heartbeat                    James McDowell

2008                Boomerang                 John Spadaro

2007                Ho’Okipa                   Mike Rothwell

2006                Ho’Okipa                   Mike Rothwell

2005                Fins                            Todd & Cindy Wyrick

2004                Boomerang                 John Spadaro

2003                Noa                             Geoff Borne

2002                Tiare                           James McDowell

2001                Tower                         Don Clothier

2000                Desperado                   Skip Winterbottom

1999                Desperado                   Skip Winterbottom

1998                20/20                           Tony Miller

1997                Urban Renewal           Les Vasconcellos

1996                20/20                           Tony Miller

1995                20/20                           Tony Miller

1994                Medicine Man              Jeff Hill / Mike Rothwell

1991                Kaimiloa                      Dave Nottage

 Dr. Les Vasconcellos Perpetual Trophy

Year      Rotarian      Cruising               PH 1              ORR A             PH 2

2011      Lei Aloha    Lei Aloha            Fins                                      Demasiada

2010      Lei Aloha    Urban Renewal   Heartbeat       Heartbeat        Shark            

2009                          Urban Renewal   Boomerang    Boomerang

2008      Mana O Ke Kai                       Gerontius      Boomerang        Addiction

2007      Lei Aloha                                Tiare              Fins                  

2006      Lei Aloha                                Boomerang    Ho’okipa           Squad Car

2005      Orion                                       Boomerang    Boomerang        Squad Car

2002                              Bon Temps                                                        Squad Car

Year              A Fleet                   B Fleet

1991              John Myrdal         Cameron Murray

1992              John Myrdal         Pierson Jacquelin

1993              John Myrdal         Justin Daniels

1994              John Myrdal         Keawe Thurston

1995              Jamie Boyden       Paul Kaseburg

1996              Christian Taubman Andrew Lewis 

1997              John Myrdal         Ethan Creps

1998              Andrew Lewis       Daniel Boatman 

1999              Andrew Lewis       Michael Cervantes

2000              Andrew Lewis       Michael Scott

2001              Andrew Lewis       Michael Scott 

2002              Andrew Lewis       Chris Hossellman

2003              Andrew Lewis       Roscoe Fowler 

2004              Drew Robb            Sean Doyle 

2005              Jesse Andrews       Justin Doyle 

2006              Steve Hochart       Alex Hossellman 

2007              Guy Fleming         Jenn Proctor 

2008              Guy Fleming         Fizz Foster

2009              Guy Fleming         Laura Hughes

2010              Lance Miller          Rinchen Harrison

2011              Lance Miller          Lindsey Andrad

The Hawaiian Star Fleet Perpetual by Guy Fleming

HLA Master Trophy 

 hawaii laser association season’s points , waikiki yacht club.

       Laser A                  Laser B 1989   Cole Slater              Zac Austin
1990   John Myrdal              Zac Austin
1991   John Myrdal              Roger Arnemann
1992   Guy Fleming              Pierson Jacquelin
1993   Guy Fleming              Ken Haig
1994   Guy Fleming              Keawe Thurston
1995   Guy Fleming              Michael Lang 1996   Guy Fleming              John Sharkey
1997   Guy Fleming              Ethan Creps 1998   Andrew Lewis             John Sharkey
1999   John Myrdal              Michael Cervantes
2000   Andrew Lewis             Michael Scott
2001   Andrew Lewis             Michael Scott
2002   Andrew Lewis             Chris Hossellman 2003   Andrew Lewis             Martin Sterling
2004   Drew Robb                Martin Sterling 2005   Jesse Andrews            Alex Hossellman
2006   Guy Fleming              Justin Doyle
2007   Guy Fleming              Morgan Merrill
2008   Guy Fleming              Morgan Merrill 2009   Morgan Merrill           Dylan Ale 2010   Dylan Ale                Ian Marshall
2011   Lance Miller             Grant Christopher

The Booby Bird Trophy

Kenwood - Offshores

 the chako cup.

King Kamehameha Perpetual Trophy

Robert G. Dodge Trophy

 COLONEL CURTIS PI’EHU IAUKEA TROPHY

Makani Hula  Perpetual Trophy

Youth Sailing Trophies

Hysa el toro c4 trophy.

  Roy E. Disney Trophy

  The Navy Gaboon Perpetual for the State Singlehanded Championships Junior award (18 and under) 

HYSA Laser A & B  

El Toro A & B Trophies

Maui Divers By Bobbie Slater & S/C Michael Roth Photo by Miles Anderson How a trophy is Born

All Islands Series Trophy

2008                Boomerang                  John Spadaro

2009                Heartbeat                    James McDowell

2010                Heartbeat                    James McDowell

2011                Heartbeat                    James McDowell

  Ken Morrison Perpetual Trophy

For Excellence in Race Management

This trophy was created in November 2003 to acknowledge the contribution made to race management in Hawaii by Ken Morrison and donated by the Waikiki Yacht Club.  It is awarded annually at the Hawaii Yacht Racing Association's Annual Awards Banquet and is administered by the Hawaii Commodores Association (HCA). The trophy winner is selected by a committee of at least three prominent yachtsmen/women selected by the HCA. The same Selection Committee that chooses the MacFarlane trophy winner is acceptable. To facilitate nominations HCA shall send a letter of invitation to all member yacht clubs of the Hawaii Yacht Racing Association no later than September 15 of each year. HYRA member clubs to HCA shall submit nomination letters no later than October 15 th  of each year. The Selection Committee shall render its decision of the current years awardee no later than November 5 of the current year. The decision of the Selection Committee shall be submitted to the President of the HCA.   The Hawaii Commodores Association shall provide a take home trophy. The perpetual trophy shall be maintained in the trophy case of Waikiki Yacht Club. Qualifications for the trophy shall be based on the following yacht racing qualifications:

Outstanding achievement in organization and management of yacht races or regattas.

Outstanding yacht racing event promotion or administration.

Exemplary Race Committee work.

Extra-ordinary performance as a support person for a race or regatta.

Past Awardees

2003                Ken Morrison                        2008                John Thorne 2004                Joe Cochran                           2009                Ted Miller 2005                Tom Pochereva                      2010                Hideki Hayashi 2006                Phil Drips                               2011                Christin Shacat 2007                Michael Roth   

 History of the Hawaiian Challenge Trophy

Year                boat name                  skipper’s name                      notes/yacht club                   .

Hours of Operation

We'd love to see you! Come join us for a drink or a meal!

Bar & Snacks

11am - 10pm, tiki bar & grill.

We are located within the Ala Wai Harbor, next to the Ilikai and the Hilton lagoon.

Waikiki Yacht Club

Review Highlights

“ The laid back feel of the place also leads one to feel comfortable enough to keep their feet up on one of the couches. ” in 2 reviews

“ The WYC is in a perfect location across from the Ala Moana Center and just in the entrance of Ala Moana Park . ” in 2 reviews

“ I visited by accident (I thought this was Hawaii Yacht Club ), and was greeted by the member manager, Lynette. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

1599 Ala Moana Blvd

Honolulu, HI 96814

You Might Also Consider

Wahine Charters

Wahine Charters specializes in an intimate snorkel experience. We accommodate a max.of 18 guests. Join us on the 'Wicked Wahine', 29ft USCG certified vessel & 'Kaiola' our 40ft Delta.She is clean, fast,& comfortable. There is a… read more

in Boat Charters, Snorkeling, Whale Watching Tours

Maita’i Catamaran

1.0 miles away from Waikiki Yacht Club

Gary G. said "My friend invited me out for catamaran ride with other friends. He coordinated everything to where we simply paid him as the organizer which I understand he booked through the website. No issues other than I noticed Yelp offered…" read more

in Boating, Boat Charters, Sailing

Hawaii Nautical - Waikiki

1.1 miles away from Waikiki Yacht Club

F S M. said "With only 2 days left in our week long vacation at Aulani, we decided to do something outside of the resort for once. I was a bit nervous since I had NO idea how the experience would be or if it would be child friendly. We arrived…" read more

in Sailing, Boat Charters, Whale Watching Tours

Amenities and More

About the business.

A Private Member Club with bar, restaurant and both wet and dry docks. Promoting yachting, navigation, and Waterman activities for all ages. Facilities include: pool, bar, restaurant, function rooms, mornings (both wet & dry for personal watercraft, canoes, paddle boards) and aloha docks for vessels visiting the islands. Youth sailing and paddling programs available. Membership categories, costs, reciprocal club list, and youth enrollment information is available upon direct request from Club office. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Is there a dress code for dinner at restaurant?

As per asking the staff, no, there is no dress code for dinner normally. They do have dressed up yacht club events sometimes (occasionally) so it's good to know just in case.

People also searched for

Things To Do

Canoe Rental

Paddleboarding

Cheap Party Venues

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

I was a regular member here for 8 years, but now am an "off island member" which limits me to 30 visits a years, which I don't come close to using. Much better deal at about $500 a year. Main difference is only regular members get parking. But usually there is parking available nearby. Having easy access to waterfront dining is convenient for hosting family and business associates. The food has actually gotten pretty decent. That's really all I use the membership for. Just a chill place to eat and drink. There are many activities for those who do have time to spend here. There is a nice pool I occasionally use. For those who live in the area, it could be really convenient. There is usually live music in the bar on the weekends.

Mahi Entree

We were in Hawaii on vacation and decided to checkout the marina situation on Oahu. We are members of The Club at Westpoint Harbor, in No. California, San Francisco area, and were interested in learning more about the live aboard situation in Oahu. The wonderful ladies at the front desk were very friendly, and when we didn't have our club introduction letter with us, they took the time to call our club and verify us. Once that was done we were welcomed with open arms! Everyone was very friendly and talkative. We walked around the docks and spoke with a lot of boat owners, really had a very nice visit. They invited us to stay for their 4th of July barbecue that evening, which we had to decline, but looked like it was going to be a great time. A great place! Stop and visit, be sure to bring a burgee to exchange.

At the bar - Waikiki Yacht Club

Perfect waterfront venue for Friday night fireworks with rockin live music if you're a member or family or friend of one. A bit loud for conversation but fun for dancing and partying. Service was nice but very short handed so order right away and don't go if you're hungry during peak hours because you might not be served right away. We ordered the Greek salad with beef gyro (additional $5) and Portobello ravioli with marinara. Both were very tasty but slow to arrive.

See all photos from Sarah S. for Waikiki Yacht Club

Came here with my mom and dad who are yacht club members. We came for brunch, didn't necessarily come for the food but it was good! Small brunch menu with decent bloody Mary's! Next time it's nice we will have to stop and hang by the pool. It's easy to find, right across the street from Ala Moana, lots of parking at the beach park.

Corned beef eggs Benedict

Denver omelet and bloody Mary's!

Music is played too loud for residents in the area. They need to adjust the volume so residents don't have to listen to the music that plays from the afternoon until 10pm. Don't want to have to blast the tv volume while trying to relax at home just to be able to hear the tv.

My husband's friend invited us to dinner here. We had a reunion of his friends. His friend is a member. I'm glad not to be. Don't sign me up. The club itself has been around a long time. The decor was very outdated and could use a face lift. Old flags hung from the ceiling rusted trophies sat in cases. The tables and chairs were from years past, probably the 90s. Parking is limited to members and when it comes to non members and parties, very inconvenient. Good luck on finding a space. Not accommodating. Food service was one of the worst experiences. It took me 15 minutes to get a drink and it's a very limited selection. Only juice available for kids is cranberry and very sour lemonade. They couldn't serve pog, guava, apple juice, milk, or anything creative. Even the drink menu had 6 cocktails that were so limited. No maitai, pina colada, blue Hawaii, anything tropical. So I passed on drinks. Now onto food selections. Limited and out of many things. Out of Brussel sprouts, edamame. Kids menu had three choices. My kids weren't interested. Kids menu should have came with a small ice cream. Nope. Hamburger, Mac n cheese and chicken strips were the choices. There were no straw cups for kids so my toddler drank out of a glass goblet. This place is not the most accommodating for children. They gave used activity books with limited crayon selection for my kids to play with. It should have been a coloring menu. So I ordered fries for my kid and pasta special. Pasta special was ground meat over noodles. That's what it tasted like and it was cold. The fries were cold too. It took over an hour to get this food. The server didn't know what we ordered and the waiter was slow to refill drinks and water. We arrived at 6:30 and food showed up at 8 pm. The portion sizes were small for the cost and flavors were disappointing. We ordered dessert and that took a while too. Once again the waiter didn't communicate with the server what we ordered. There were no description of what the desserts entailed. The menu didn't describe what was being served. Just the name of the item and the cost. The only positive was the sunset and fireworks. By the time we left it was 9 pm. My kids were exhausted but didn't complain. However, I saw a lot of kids restless and running around. I couldn't blame them. This place needs an upgrade at all levels.

Noodles with ground meat

Chocolate cake. The inside didn't have chocolate lava pouring out.

This place isn't exactly a spot you walk in from off the street looking for a meal. To access the Yacht Club, you have to be invited by someone who is already a member. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to visit because my father-in-law was invited by a nice lady who he met at the mall lol. Inside, the Club is ritzy for sure and exclusive as you are prompted to provide a membership card at the front gate to get in. The restaurant rests on a pier right off the water near Magic Island and the demographic has the feel of a fancy boat club. Aside from the beautiful seaside view, the food was delicious as well. I ordered a standard burger with fries, but the meat was cooked to perfection and the fries were well seasoned. At dinner, we also had the company of a live band that we could watch while we ate. The laid back feel of the place also leads one to feel comfortable enough to keep their feet up on one of the couches. Overall, I had a wonderful visit here and although I'm not anywhere the demographic that could afford a membership, I would definitely come back if invited again.

See all photos from Sonya M. for Waikiki Yacht Club

Great place with amazing people. We are visiting from the St. Croix Yacht Club in Minnesota and we had an amazing time and great food and drinks. Thanks for the hospitality!

Service is top notch with a great view. The atmosphere is extremely friendly and you feel at home no matter who you meet or talk to. The food is pretty yummy too.

French onion soup and delicious onion rings

I was invited to attend a professional lunch hosted by a member and was rather happy with the ambience and the food. My husband dropped me off so parking wasn't an issue, and as it was a weekday during lunch, parking was likely a lot easier for my coworkers although the area is quite busy. Walking up, the building was tucked away and the doorway out of sight, but as soon as you turned the corner, the beautiful metal work door to the facility caught my eye; gorgeous! Although we stood at the window for a moment until we were helped, the woman at the front was courteous and polite. Once inside, I noticed the other folks enjoying a leisurely lunch at the bar area or just relaxing in a few chairs near the door. We headed over to the side for our lunch event and enjoyed the food; I had the BLT and it did not disappoint; quite tasty and right sized. Of course the company was incomparable but just below that was the lovely view of the boats and the dock. While some may say the decor is dated, I'd posit it brings a bit of charm and character to the spot. I'd return, if invited of course, and would love to sit and maybe enjoy a drink, just soaking it all up.

2 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Other Boat Tours Nearby

Dolphin Excursions Hawaii

Cody G. said "I don't usually write reviews unless the experience truly warrants one and this is one of those times. My girlfriend and I stayed in Oahu for a week and while almost everything is fun and enjoyable this was by far the highlight of…" read more

in Snorkeling, Whale Watching Tours, Boat Tours

Living Ocean Tours

0.9 miles away from Waikiki Yacht Club

Amy R. said "My husband and I went out on the Two tank Turtle reef dive when we were in Honolulu in February. I want to begin with saying that this was only my 3rd open water dive since getting certified in September of last year and I was…" read more

in Boat Tours, Snorkeling

Collections Including Waikiki Yacht Club

Hawaii Love

By Manda Bear B.

Hawaii🌴🌺🌊☀️👙🏖️🐚

By Chardá B.

People Also Viewed

Hawaii Yacht Club

Kaneohe Yacht Club

Star of Honolulu

Ncl America

Kewalo Basin Harbor

He’eia State Park

Shriners Beach Club

Kuliouou Beach Park

Kawaikui Beach Park

Bishop Square

Best of Honolulu

Things to do in Honolulu

People found Waikiki Yacht Club by searching for…

Canoe Rental Honolulu

Honolulu Yacht Club Honolulu

Marina Bar Honolulu

Oahu Yachts Honolulu

Ocean View Honolulu

Party Boat Rental Honolulu

Private Clubs Honolulu

Romantic Activities Honolulu

Sail Boat Rental Honolulu

Sailing Lessons Honolulu

Waterfront Restaurants Honolulu

Yacht Rental Honolulu

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Restaurants

Sunset Cruise

Jet Ski Rental

Whale Watching

Other Places Nearby

Find more Boat Tours near Waikiki Yacht Club

Find more Boating near Waikiki Yacht Club

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

Honolulu Travel Guide

Accommodations

Real Estate

Restaurants

Transportation

LET'S CONNECT

Anguilla Antigua Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Cayman Curacao Dominica Jamaica Nevis Puerto Rico St. Barts St. Croix St. John St. Kitts St. Lucia St. Thomas Turks and Caicos Virgin Gorda St. Martin

Kailua-Kona

Princeville

United States

Boca Grande

Baja California Sur

Canyon Point

Cundinamarca

Deerfield Beach

French Polynesia

Gallatin Gateway

Guarulhos, Sao Paulo

Indianapolis

Lake Placid

Lake Toxaway

Los Angeles

Las Catalinas

Mountain Village

Mackinac Island

Mammoth Lakes

Miguel Hidalgo

New Hampshire

North Conway

Philadelphia

Philipsburg

Powell Butte

Playa del Carmen

Provincia de Guanacaste

Puerto Vallarta

Punta De Mita

Quintana Roo

Robbinsville

Región Metropolitana

Rio de Janeiro

Saddlestring

San Francisco

Snowmass Village

San Jose del Cabo

Truth or Consequences

Waynesville

Zona Hotelera

Los Cabos Mexico

The Azores      – Santa Maria      – Sao Migual      – Sao jorge      – Terceira      – Faial      – Pico      – Graciosa      – Flores      – Corvo Greece Hungary Italy Ireland Ontario Scotland

Middle East

Saudi Arabia

South Pacific

New Zealand

Everywhere Digest

• All Categories
• Activities (800)
• Agents (374)
• Architecture (223)
• Arts and Culture (342)
• Awards and Testimonial (73)
• Beachfront (388)
• Big Island (3753)
• Building (229)
• Buying Advice (761)
• Charity (150)
• Condos (1344)
• Conservation (113)
• Decor (108)
• Design (265)
• Dining (178)
• Education (376)
• Events (337)
• For Sale (2612)
• Foreclosures, Short Sales & REO's (91)
• Hawaii (7560)
• Hawaii Island (1324)
• Hawaii Life Charitable Fund (46)
• Home Improvement (64)
• Intelligence (104)
• Interior Design (142)
• Kauai (1682)
• Landscape Architecture (44)
• Latest News (953)
• Lifestyle (1676)
• Luxury (802)
• Market Intelligence (563)
• Market Trends (637)
• Marketing (104)
• Maui (2603)
• Military (289)
• Molokai (22)
• Mortgage (96)
• Moving (209)
• Moving To Hawaii (521)
• New Developments (130)
• New Listing (1032)
• Oahu (3012)
• Ocean View (995)
• Oceanfront (505)
• Open House (62)
• Press (121)
• Press & Media (77)
• Projects (86)
• REO Bank-Owned (7)
• Sales (337)
• Selling Advice (402)
• Software (15)
• Tips (1123)
• Volunteer (62)

Yacht Life on Oahu – Where to Keep Your Boat?

• By Hawai'i Life

July 25, 2017

The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the best sailing in the world. As an avid skipper myself (and by avid I mean completely addicted to sailing), and being around boats my entire life, it was something that drew me to Oahu and made it my permanent home. Waikiki offers steady wind and a relatively calm bay for sailing and power boating all year. Diving, snorkeling, and swimming off your boat in the crystal-clear water is something everyone loves to do. It really is living the dream lifestyle! However, with the limited slips and moorings available on Oahu, let’s talk about where you can keep your boat when you live on Oahu.

Ala Wai Yacht Harbor

The largest and most well-known harbor is the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor located at 1651 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815. Even though the wait for a permeant slip can be 2 to several years, the harbor offers a temporary permit for 120 days a year. It is also relatively inexpensive depending on the size of your boat and can accommodate some pretty large vessels. For example, a 40-foot sail yacht would cost $15.63 per day. The representatives can easily quote you on any size boat via their direct phone line at: (808) 973-9727

Bondi Tram anchored for some swimming and diving in Waikiki

The Ala Wai Harbor is the end point of the world famous Transpac sailing race from Los Angeles to Honolulu, which takes place every two years. It was just completed this year with the last yacht arriving in Honolulu on July 21st, 2017. There is a large channel that is easy to maneuver and is close to everything Honolulu has to offer.

There are two private yacht clubs in Honolulu: the Waikiki Yacht Club and the Hawaii Yacht Club. Both offer permanent slips for all different sized yachts. These clubs are located right next to the Ala Wai Harbor. As a regular member of either club, the wait can be anywhere from 2 to 10 years, but temporary slips are available. Both clubs have restaurants, bars, and a lot of ocean activities to participate in such as canoe paddling, Cal 20 races, and sailing lessons. Hawaii Yacht club hosts the weekly Friday night “Beer Can” sail yacht races, with live music to follow at each club. I frequent at both clubs weekly, and they are highly enjoyable, filled with great people that love to spend time sailing or power boating.

50-foot temp slip in Ala Wai Yacht Harbor

Kewalo Harbor

Kewalo Harbor is another excellent option located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd. B-1 Honolulu, HI 96814. Kewalo Harbor is in the Kaka’ako District of Honolulu where new and beautifully build condominiums are going up. See my other blog on “Living in Kaka’ako.”   Slips range from 40 to 100 feet. Both members and visitors have access to three loading docks, electricity, water, vehicle parking and restrooms. Living across the street in a condo and having your boat slip in Kewalos would be very convenient. Ward village offers a ton of shops and great restaurants to eat at after a day on the ocean. You would still go right out the large channel and head for diamond head to enjoy all Waikiki has to offer.

Diamond Head and the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor

Outside Honolulu

If you choose to circle the island and leave Honolulu, you have a few other options.  On the west side, there is Ko’olina Marina located at 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707. This is a live aboard marina that has access to water, electricity, cable television hookup, telephone, laundry and restroom facilities, picnic area with barbecue and gated entry to the Marina. There is a 160-foot floating fuel dock offering both diesel and gasoline with a pump out station. Guest rates are $2.50 per foot per day as well as a waiting list for permanent slips. Surrounded by hotels, golf courses, and restaurants, Ko’olina is a great place to park your yacht. The snorkeling on the west side is phenomenal, and dolphins are known to swim very close to shore every day giving you the opportunity to see these beautiful animals. There are a lot of properties to choose from if you are thinking of buying a home in Ko’olina. Townhouses on the golf courses, villas, condominiums and single family homes, most offering two or three bedrooms are all inside this gated community and minutes from the marina.

The small boat harbor on the North Shore is called Haleiwa Harbor. This is actually the toughest harbor to secure a long-term slip. The wait time is 8-20 years as it is the only safe harbor on the North Shore. During the summer months, many boaters sail up to Waimea Bay and anchor on the sand. They grill off their boats and sleep over for days at a time to just swim and kayak in the beautiful water. I have personally done this, and it is so relaxing, peaceful, and I highly recommend it to any cruiser. If you are staying for many days, it helps to have a small dingy to go into shore to get supplies or go to dinner in Haleiwa town.

Another option is buying a property that comes with a boat slip. One of my favorite gated communities is the Makani Kai Marina located at 45-995 Wailele Rd, Kaneohe 96744. These condos offer large 2-3 bedroom units with Kaneohe Bay Views, large lanais, a pool, clubhouse and a private Marina. As the units are extremely rare and hardly come on the market, when they do, they range from $700k-$800k depending on the size and view and come with your own boat slip. Large slips are available in this marina and the world-class Kaneohe sandbar is easy to access from the channel.

Hawaii Kai Slips

Gateway Peninsula located in West Marina, Hawaii Kai, offers boat slips with their townhome units. 3 bedroom/2 baths range in the high $800k and offer access to Koko Marina and are located very close to Honolulu. You can take your powerboat to some of the great restaurants such as Kona brewing company or Assaggio’s Italian, or do your weekly shopping at Costco from the waterway. There are lots of single family home options on the waterway if you wish to have a power boat sitting outside your door. Size restrictions do matter, but it’s another great option for the avid power boater.

Racing in Honolulu

All in all, here on Oahu we have a great sailing and power yachting community. There is nothing better than a great day out on the ocean. Contact me if you have more questions about the boating life on Oahu , or if you plan to move to the islands with or without your yacht. Also, I must add, if you are wondering how to get your boat here, I deliver yachts from the mainland if you prefer to have her sailed over!

Posted on July 25, 2017 in Lifestyle , Oahu , Oceanfront , Beach Villas at Ko Olina , Big Island , boat , Condos , For Sale , Hawaii , Hawaii Yacht Club , ko'olina marina , sailing , Transpac , Waikiki , waikiki yacht club , yacht

Hawai'i Life

You can email me at companyblog@hawaiilife.com or via phone at (800) 370-3848 .

Cool. Add your comment... Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Leave your opinion here. Please be nice. Your Email address will be kept private, this form is secure and we never spam you.

My gosh Ashley you are so knowledgeable. I want to go sailing with you.

Leiola Augustine

July 31, 2017

What a well written article Ashely! You’ve got just enough information to keep the dream alive without overwhelming the reader. I’ll be sure to reference this article in the future. Costco via boat!?!?! Incredible…..

Fannie Cline

August 8, 2017

Great in-depth overview of options Ashley! Mahalo!

Yacht charter Monaco

August 23, 2017

Hey Ashley Bailey, Nice blog. The yachts are very beautiful nad the information you shared is very nice. If you want you can also visit Superyacht charter Monaco .

Alan McConnell

November 20, 2017

Great article, Ashley. I wish only to point out that Keehi Small Boat State) harbor and Keehi Sailing club (private) are at 4 Sand Island Access Road, near HNL airport. The former typically has temporary offshore mooring most of the time, and some temporary slips are sometimes available.

Waianae also has a recreational harbor in the north-west side of Oahu, as does Kailua to the east. If you’re active duty or retired military or DOT, Rainbow Marina may be a good choice.

You’re correct that permanent slips often have extraordinary waiting lists. Services available at most harbors are adequate, though state harbors tend to be “no frills”. Few harbors monitor marine channels, so be prepared for cell phone communications. Sailing conditions are great year around, but Fishing and Diving are better planned elsewhere. Especially the former. But if you’re in to surfing, beach bummin’, or any number of other ocean activities, Hawaii has them all.

Finally, don’t expect locals or the state or local government to extend much aid to sailors. For some reason, they seem to actively discourage pleasure boaters in the islands.

Aloha nui loa, Alan

Emily goodall

May 22, 2019

Please don’t mislead people about the yachting scene out here. I too have been a lifelong boater having spent many years circumnavigating the world. My home base has always been Hawaii and I can tell you from first-hand experience this is not, by any stretch of the imagination, a premier sailing location. First of all the channels between the islands are some of the roughest in the world, at times, and can be very dangerous for anyone who is not thoroughly experienced with rough-water sailing . . . In fact only the most experienced should consider venturing out into the channels. Secondly, there is little in the way of good viable anchorage’s here in Hawaii. Most of the anchorages here are exposed to t the open ocean and can sometimes be very dangerous. Sailors who anchor on their own ground tackle in offshore anchorage’s here have to be alert all the time for changing weather conditions. Thirdly, the small boat harbor situation in the state of Hawaii is in absolute chaos. The DLNR and DOBOR, the state agencies who are responsible for managing our Harbor have completely & utterly failed the boating community here. You can expect to wait, sometimes, up to 10 years to get a permanent mooring here in Hawaii. Boaters here pay heavily for the bungling of these State agencies. Sadly what could be a premier boating environment, turns out to be very disappointing.

September 9, 2019

Hello! I am trying to sail to Hawaii and live somewhere around the north shore , is this possible ? Would like to be in a mooring field, or what’s best ?

Alex Gojile

June 23, 2020

Good article Can we get an update version?

Joe Kennedy

January 6, 2022

Great article Ashley!

I would love to live on a 35-38′ power yacht in Hawaii and am open to both renting or buying.

More Articles from Hawaii Life

Kapahulu, o’ahu: where the weekend is all week long.

Kapahulu is located between Kaimuki and Waikiki Beach. It is a rare blend of city and casual living with beautiful …

• August 19, 2024

Discovering Hawaii’s History and Heritage on the Big Island

Discovering the history and heritage of the Big Island offers a captivating journey into the rich cultural and historical landscape …

• Carrie Nicholson, R(B), BIC

Looking to Buy or Sell Wailea Elua Village, Wailea Maui

Looking to Buy in Wailea Elua Village Oceanfront Condos? Call the Team Steve Nickens and Alex Abreu of Hawaii Life …

• Steve Nickens
• August 16, 2024

1970’s Beach House Style Koko Kai Residence | 165 Lumahai Street | Oceanview Luxury Real Estate in Hawaii Kai, Honolulu, Hawai’i

Another beautiful listing to share in Koko Kai! Built in 1971, the vaulted exposed beam ceilings give a nod to …

• Elisa Lipton

HI Central Disclaimer

© 1995-2016 Honolulu Board of REALTORS®. DMCA Notice. If you require a reasonable accommodation to access our services, please contact us at (808) 732-3000 or email [email protected] so we may better assist you. All rights reserved. Information herein deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Note: Honolulu Board of REALTORS® receives inquiries seeking professional advice; however the Honolulu Board of REALTORS® staff is not qualified, nor licensed, by the state of Hawaii to properly address real estate or legal issues. For questions concerning these issues, consult with either the Hawaii Real Estate Commission, your Principal Broker, or an Attorney.

HIS Disclaimer

© Copyright 2016, Hawaii Information Service. In this page not only will you see properties represented by , but also properties represented by other members of Hawaii Information Service. This information has been supplied by third parties and has not been independently verified by Hawaii Information Service and is, therefore, not guaranteed.

RAM Disclaimer

This information is believed to be accurate. It has been provided by sources other than the Realtors Assoc. of Maui and should not be relied upon without independent verification. You should conduct your own investigation and consult with appropriate professionals to determine the accuracy of the information provided and to answer any questions concerning the property and structures located thereon. Featured properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this brochure. Copyright, 1995-2015, REALTORS® Association of Maui, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Privacy Policy

Cookie policy.

Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor

• Total Slips: 699
• Max Length: 85'
• Dry Storage
• Floating Docks
• Launch Ramp/Service
• Laundry Facilities
• Picnic Area
• Restaurant Nearby
• Service/Maintenance
• Travel Lift
• Water Sport Rental

Rates / Policies

Hawaii Residents; $9.14/ft LOA/month* Non-Residents: $10.05/ft LOA/month* Transients: Daily rate depending upon LOA*

*additional fees for electricity, dock box

For transient vessels, the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor does not require a deposit. However, transient berths are on a first-come, first-serve basis without reservations. Please contact the harbor office to receive a waitlist application.

For permanent tenants, an active waitlist exists to obtain a berth. Please contact the harbor office to receive a waitlist application.

Permanent slips are non-transferable.

Additional Information

• Fax: 808-973-9739
• Latitude:  21.28633
• Longitude:  -157.83965

Find a Marina

Fuel search, search for discounts, search marinas to make a reservation, find an article, you must be logged in to make a reservation.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Not a Marinalife Member? Sign-up for our Digital Subscriber membership today to reserve with this marina online!

• Honolulu, Hawaii /

Hawaii Yacht Club

Both Ala Wai Yacht Harbor and Hawaii Yacht Club are recommended for visiting. Here people can delve deep into delicious meals, and try good chicken sandwiches , fish and chicken . Delicious beer is a right choice for the first time you visit this club.

Select between indoor and outdoor seating. Prices here are reported to be fair. The nice atmosphere is what Hawaii Yacht Club is about. Google users like this place: it was granted 4.7 stars.

Frequently mentioned in reviews

Ratings of hawaii yacht club, visitors' opinions on hawaii yacht club.

Food guides for travelers

Similar restaurants nearby

Popular collections including hawaii yacht club, tasty dishes in honolulu.

Restaurant features in Honolulu

Better Sailing

Living on a Boat in Hawaii: What you Need to Know (Best Liveaboard Marinas, Costs, etc)

The Hawaiian Islands have some of the world’s best sailing opportunities. It’s among the top destinations for sailors and offers many activities and amazing places to explore. For liveaboards, life can be cheap in Hawaii in comparison with the other US States. For example, throughout the year, Waikiki provides consistent wind and a generally tranquil bay for sailing and powerboating. Everyone enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming in the crystal-clear water off their boat. It truly is the lifestyle of a lifetime! On the other hand, there are a limited number of slips and moorings accessible in Hawaii. So, let’s speak about the liveaboard life in Hawaii, follow me!

Information about Living Aboard in Hawaii

You are not allowed to live aboard a boat in Hawaii or even on an offshore mooring. But, this does not apply to all marinas and locations. Furthermore, some marinas allow you to stay 90 or 120 days in marinas and harbors in Hawaii. In that situation, you can liveaboard using the facilities there. But, you’ll have to pay a lot of money per week to stay there. You can, however, live onboard if you travel from one marina to the next and stay for a specific amount of time. For example, if you owe a 50 feet boat you will be paying around $400 per week. These are in addition to the card fee for bathrooms and more for shore power. In addition, there are certain restrictions on mooring vessels utilized for living aboard in small boat harbors other than Ala Wai and Keehi.

Keep in mind that a lot of harbors don’t even have the aforementioned facilities. But, the yacht harbor in Ala Wai does. If you belong to a yacht club, you can stay on their moorings in Lahaina as a guest. You will still be charged, but it is a lovely environment. Even if you are in a mooring area, you will be charged for the overall length of your vessel rather than the deck length. And, even if moorings are not available, you will be charged for anchorage. And, this may put your boat on the rocks with a slight breeze.

Note that according to the Hawaiian department of land and natural resources, the department may permit the operator of a vessel to moor the vessel and liveaboard. This applies for a period that doesn’t exceed thirty days at any one small boat harbor during the calendar year. Moreover, the operator applies for and receives a living aboard permission. This allows the designated individuals to dwell onboard the operator’s vessel.

Small boat harbors are built, operated, and maintained primarily to provide public recreational boating opportunities and to promote the fishing sector. To achieve these goals, an application for a living aboard permit must be reviewed. Also, the department may request additional information to determine the effect or likelihood of the permit’s issuance on the most efficient use of small boat harbor facilities for recreational boating activities. The department will not provide a permit to live aboard a vessel unless the application and supporting evidence clearly show that doing so is not in the public interest or otherwise illegal.

>>Also Read: Best Time to Sail to Hawaii

Costs of Living Aboard in Hawaii

The fees for a marina slip determine a lot. You still have to pay for things like energy, the internet, etc. It’s important to note that as the space is limited when living aboard, you have to be a bit of a minimalist to live full time aboard a boat. Maintenance, insurance, and other steady costs are also important to keep in mind. For example, outside of Honolulu, a monthly fee of $610 is charged for a 35′ slip. You also have to pay for electricity. As a matter of fact, the closer you get to Honolulu, the more expensive it will be.

Don’t forget to check beforehand so as to see if there are any mooring possibilities without long waitlists. It may be difficult to get things to work out if there’s a 6-month waitlist. On Oahu, long-term mooring isn’t recommended. Most harbors have long waiting lists. Also, the locations you might be able to get into aren’t the safest for your belongings due to criminality. You will have a better chance on the outer islands. Although Hawaii is expensive, it is not significantly more so than other states on the mainland. Some of them already have a poor reputation for the cost of living. In other words, what you need for the liveaboard life in Hawaii is a decent budget and a spacious vessel. This, of course, will depend on your needs and crew.

Facilities and Liveaboard Life in Hawaii

In general, it’s not so easy to be a liveaboard in Hawaii. This is because the facilities are mostly nonexistent, a private marina is a far better choice if space is available. Also, most goods are extremely expensive. On top of that, the currents, wind, and waves in the channels can be dangerous at times. So, unless you have a very solid heavy displacement cruiser, you may find yourself waiting to cross. And, based on the disappearance of offshore moorings, more things have only gotten more expensive and less welcoming. Keep in mind that criminality in Hawaii is also increasing dramatically.

Ala Moana Marina is a marina in Ala Moana, Hawaii. It is close to all of Waikiki’s bustle, Ala Moana’s massive retail area, and downtown, and the rent is more than reasonable. There appears to be a community of people who live on their boats and mingle with one another, sitting on piers with their beverages to watch sunsets, assisting one another with repairs, and so on. The marina’s rules required that the boat be a “sailable” boat, which meant that you had to take it out of your slip at least once a year.

Some sailors state that even if the Hawaiian Islands have hundreds of miles of shoreline many areas are the most boat-hostile places they’ve never been. Even for the boating community, it’s pricey there, and the boating laws are far too restrictive. Many boaters end up selling their boats and settling down on land. However, it’s a wonderful location to be if you can afford it and don’t mind the restrictions but be prepared for dealing with difficulties. Lastly, hurricanes and bad weather are also common in the Hawaiian Islands.

>>Also Read: Living on a Boat in California: What you Need to Know

Best Marinas in Hawaii

Ala wai yacht harbor.

The Ala Wai Yacht Harbor is the largest and most well-known harbor. Despite the fact that obtaining a permanent slip can take anywhere from two to three years, the harbor provides a 120-day interim permit. It can also fit some rather large yachts and is relatively inexpensive. This, however, depends on the size of your boat. A 40-foot sail yacht, for example, would cost $15.63 per day. The representatives can provide you with an estimate for any size boat over the phone.

The Ala Wai Harbor is the finish line of the world-famous Transpac sailing event, which takes place every two years from Los Angeles to Honolulu. There is a big canal that is easy to navigate and is close to all of Honolulu’s attractions. The Waikiki Yacht Club and the Hawaii Yacht Club are two private yacht clubs in Honolulu. Both offer permanent slips for boats of all sizes. These clubs are located directly across the street from the Ala Wai Harbor. The wait for regular members of either club can range from two to ten years, but temporary slips are possible.

Kewalo Harbor

Honolulu’s Kewalo Harbor is another wonderful option. Kewalo Harbor is located in Honolulu’s Kaka’ako district, where new and gorgeous apartments are being built. The length of the slips varies between 40 and 100 feet. Three loading docks, electricity, water, vehicle parking, and facilities are available to both members and visitors. It would be quite easy to live in a condo across the street and have a boat slip at Kewalos. After a day on the beach, Ward town has a plethora of stores and excellent eateries to choose from. You’d still head straight out the huge channel and up to Diamond Head to take advantage of everything Waikiki has to offer.

Ko Olina Marina

The full-service 342-slip Ko Olina Marina, located on Oahu’s picturesque leeward shore, contains state-of-the-art Bellingham floating docks and the Ko Olina Activity Building. The first marina built in Hawaii in almost 30 years, and the only one intended to fulfill the needs of world-class megayachts, opened in 2000. The marina received the Marina Dock Age magazine’s “Marina of the Year Award” in 2008.

Honokohau Harbor

Between the Kona Airport and the town of Kailua-Kona sits Honokohau Harbor. Grander Alley, located just beyond the harbor, offers world-class sportfishing. This is a fantastic tiny boat harbor. There is plenty of free parking. Restrooms are clean and there are plenty of facilities.This is where dive boats, snorkeling cruises, fishing charters, and other activities depart from. Two boat launches are available. The harbor has two sides. On one side, there’s a dive shop, as well as locations to have a drink or a bite to eat.

Kaneohe Yacht Club

The Kaneohe Yacht Club was founded in 1924. Its goal was to encourage and promote a love of sailing, powerboating, and other maritime sports via competitive, recreational, and social events. They offer first-class harbor facilities, clubhouse, and other amenities. Moreover, they create a refuge on Windward Oahu for boating enthusiasts. All these encourage good seamanship, education, and an overall attitude of excellence.

Outside of Honolulu

You have a couple of different possibilities if you choose to round the island and leave Honolulu. Ko’olina Marina is located in Kapolei on the west side of the island. This is a liveaboard marina with water, electricity, cable television hookup, phone, laundry and washroom facilities. There’s also a picnic area with grill, and a secured entrance. A 160-foot floating fuel dock with a pump out station offers both diesel and gasoline. There is a $2.50 per foot per day guest charge, as well as a permanent slip waiting list. Ko’olina is an excellent site to dock your boat. This is because there are many activities and shops around it.

Haleiwa Harbor is a tiny boat harbor on the North Shore. This is the most difficult harbor to get a long-term slip in. Because it is the only safe harbor on the North Shore, the waiting period is around 10 years. Many boaters sail up to Waimea Bay in the summer and anchor on the sand. They cook on their boats and stay for days at a time just to swim and kayak in the gorgeous lake. It’s quite pleasant and serene, and I would recommend it to any cruiser. If you plan on staying for several days, a small dingy can be useful for getting groceries or going to supper in Haleiwa town.

Another alternative is to purchase a home that has a boat slip. The Makani Kai Marina is one of the greatest communities. Big 2-3 bedroom suites with Kaneohe Bay views, large lanais, a pool, clubhouse, and a private marina are available in these condos. Because the units are exceptionally unusual and rarely appear on the market, they sell for between $700,000 and $800,000 depending on size and view and include your own boat slip. This marina has large docks, and the world-class Kaneohe sandbar is easily accessible from the canal.

The townhome apartments at Gateway Peninsula at West Marina, Hawaii Kai, also include boat slips. There are 3 bedroom/2 bath homes with access to Koko Marina and close proximity to Honolulu. All these start in the high $800s. You may take your boat to some of the fantastic eateries along the river, such as Kona Brewing Company or Assaggio’s Italian, or go shopping at Costco. If you want to have a motorboat right outside your door, there are a variety of single-family house alternatives on the canal. Although there are certain size restrictions, it is still a fantastic alternative for the avid powerboater.

>>Also Read: Best Sailing Destinations in Hawaii

Living on a Boat in Hawaii – The Bottom Line

So, living aboard your boat is feasible in Hawaii but you will probably encounter some difficulties. This is due to the State’s laws, expensive slip rates, not so many liveaboard communities, and inclement weather. However, if you have decided that you want to liveaboard in Hawaii you can do it. You just have to plan and organize yourself and your boat ahead of time, do some research and contact the marinas of your preference. Keep in mind that a standard mooring permit, as well as additional permission, is required to reside aboard a boat, resulting in a higher rent charge. Proposed legislation that would increase slip rental prices might have a significant impact on the Ala Wai Harbor’s unique and colorful community of boat owners. And, this includes individuals who live aboard their vessels full time.

I hope that this article has helped you find out whether or not you want to liveaboard in Hawaii. It is totally feasible and it can also be a unique experience if you choose the right marina and location. I wish you all luck with your research!

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

Related Posts

Sailing with Friends: Tie Knots, Navigate the Seas and Create Unforgettable Memories

Best Boating Destinations in the Florida Keys

Best Boat Generators

Living on a Boat in London: What you Need to Know (Best Liveaboard Marinas, Costs, etc)

• Buyer's Guide
• Destinations
• Maintenance
• Sailing Info

Hit enter to search or ESC to close.

News That Matters Support us

Hawaii News

Investigative stories and local news updates.

• Latest News
• Environment
• Legislature
• Honolulu Rail
• Browse All Topics

2024 Elections Guide

Latest elections news, candidate info, ballot drop box locations, how to register to vote, financial disclosures and more.

• Candidate Q&As
• The 2024 Ballot
• Financial Disclosures
• Latest Stories

Coverage of the 2023 wildfire destruction of Lahaina.

Top Stories

• The Lives We Lost
• The Long Road Home
• Maui Events

Commentary, Analysis and Opinion.

• Community Voices

Special Projects

Award winning in-depth reports and featured on-going series.

• Browse Projects & Series

Newsletters

Get the week’s news delivered straight to your inbox.

• Terms of Service
• Reprint Policy
• About Civil Beat
• Jobs at Civil Beat
• Our Supporters

Living On A Boat Is Hard In Hawaii. Finding Rental Relief Is Impossible

William Strickland has lived in cramped quarters in his Catalina 30 sailboat in the Ala Wai Boat Harbor for the last 18 years while working at the USS Arizona Memorial to support himself and his family on the mainland.

When the state harbors division increased its monthly mooring fees in 2019 , he worried that he would be priced out of the harbor. That fear heightened the following year when he lost his job due to the Covid-19 pandemic that devastated the economy beginning in March 2020.

Now he says he really can’t afford to live on his boat but also can’t access the federal aid that has helped so many renters on land who found themselves in a similar predicament.

He’s $7,500 behind on paying the harbor monthly fees to live on his boat, plus late fees, mooring fees and utilities. When he applied for the Rental and Utility Relief Program , he said he didn’t qualify because he wasn’t considered a renter. 

On Monday, he gave up his liveaboard status that allowed him to live on his boat seven days a week, and currently he sleeps in his car. At the end of the year, he plans to give up his boat entirely.

“I don’t want to give up my boat because this is all I got, and I would be homeless without my boat,” Strickland said, but he also said he can’t afford to live on land because of Hawaii’s high cost of living. 

Strickland said he pays $1,050 a month, which  includes dock fees, a liveaboard permit, parking and utilities, versus $1,750 for the average one-bedroom apartment in Honolulu . Strickland works whatever side jobs he can get to make ends meet.

“By no means is anybody rich here,” he said. “People that have the money, they don’t live on their boats – the nice boats. People that live on their boats don’t have money. That’s just how it goes.”

The pandemic affected many who rely on affordable housing and rental assistance, including those who live on their boats. 

Like Strickland, other boaters have said they didn’t qualify for rent relief and may also be forced to move out of the harbor, while some have said they didn’t know they could apply in the first place.

Hawaii counties raced to distribute millions of dollars in rental and utility assistance over the past two years, but under the program’s qualifications , there is a gray area for boaters.

Patrick Williams, communications manager at Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization, said that people who rent their boat and live on it can qualify, but if they own their boat, they don’t.

“An eligible household that rents a boat and lives on it can qualify for mooring fees from the Rental and Utility Relief Program,” Williams said in an email. “A household that owns a boat is considered a homeowner and is not eligible, just as a family that owns a house on land is a homeowner and not eligible.”

“We know that owning a home is a major expense but homeowners cannot qualify for the program,” Williams continued. “The program is federally funded and follows federal regulations to support renters.”

Williams said the program has received one application from a boater and it was denied.

However, a person who rents a boat cannot live in state harbors, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. They have to own their boat in order to obtain a permit that allows them to live in the harbor.

“DOBOR rules do not allow for any vessels to be rented out to anyone else,” DLNR spokesperson Giovanni Parks said in an email.

Fernando Cosio, staff attorney at Medical-Legal Partnership for Children in Hawaii , hasn’t had a client who is a boater yet, but said it’s difficult for people who rent a house on land to get rental assistance.

“I can just imagine for those people who are boaters, you know, good luck. If our experience is any example, it’s very difficult,” Cosio said.

There are 17 state harbors managed by the DLNR’s Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation. Ala Wai and Keehi Lagoon are the only state harbors that allow people to live on their boats. According to DLNR, the Ala Wai Boat Harbor may have up to 129 people living on their boats and 35 can live aboard at Keehi Lagoon Harbor.

For years, boaters paid by the length of their vessel, but the rules changed in November 2019. Boaters now pay either by the length of their boats or the docks, whichever is longer. 

The Legislature recently passed a measure that would increase the harbor fees based on fair market value. However, there was pushback from some in the boating community who said their fees have more than doubled already. 

The current slip fee, which increased in 2019, is $13 per foot at the Ala Wai Harbor and about $9 at other state harbors . The last time the fees went up was in 2011, increasing to $5.67 a foot from $5.25 a foot in 2006.

The fee hikes are intended to go toward DLNR’s delayed maintenance projects at the harbors.  

In 2018, the department estimated $310 million worth of capital improvements and maintenance costs are needed around the islands, and some $40.3 million of that work is needed at just the Ala Wai Harbor. The work includes dredging, water and sewer line replacements, boat launch ramp repairs, electrical work and replacement of some piers and docks. 

Sen. Sharon Moriwaki – who represents Waikiki, Ala Moana, Kakaako, Moiliili and McCully – hosted a  town hall meeting in June to address concerns from the boating community and to update them on DOBOR’s capital improvements. 

“Maintenance and capital improvement projects are ongoing,” DOBOR Administrator Ed Underwood said in an email.

“Currently, the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor has the new water line project underway (and) replacement of the finger piers on the 600 row will begin in the near future. The planning for the new paving project at the Keehi small boat harbor is being finalized and (repair and maintenance) is ongoing at facilities statewide.”

Boaters have long complained that there has yet to be improvements in the harbors. Some of the complaints this year have been about the Ala Wai Boat Harbor’s restrooms, where boaters have said there were no soap dispensers or toilet paper, and people were using drugs and defecating on the restroom floors and walls.

One of the most recent complaints from some of the boaters is the blue and yellow stickers posted on the dock boxes near the front of their boats. The DLNR implemented the stickers program in October to address issues with people who are illegally living on their boats without a liveaboard permit.

“People are continuously illegally living on their vessels without permission and it has become a very difficult situation to manage,” Underwood said. “The DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation stopped issuing new liveaboard permits three years ago and would prefer not to have liveaboards in the small boat harbors.”

DLNR officials said that living on boats doesn’t meet the purpose or scope of the state law that governs small boat harbors.

“Almost all people living on their vessels do not meet the purposes as stated in the Hawaii Revised Statutes,” DLNR spokesman AJ McWhorter said in an email. “Often, their vessels are not in good material and operating condition. They also do not navigate beyond the confines of the small boat harbor at least once every 90 days as required by law and the vessels are basically used as floating condos.”

Underwood also said those who are caught aboard their vessel after midnight without a sticker “would be subject to enforcement action which may include citations or loss of mooring privileges.”

When a boater is unable to pay the monthly fees, DOBOR will seize the vessel.

It’s unclear how many people have left the harbors since the fee hikes took effect and the pandemic hit. There are about 164 people who have these stickers to legally live on their boats.

Moriwaki said she’s checked with agencies providing housing relief and DOBOR, but there was no available assistance.

“We may need to expand the definition to help the liveaboards who cannot afford the increased habitation fees. Anyone facing this hardship due to Covid can and should be helped to keep them from becoming homeless,” Moriwaki said.

“The reality is that there are people who think that living on a boat is a luxury, and most people don’t live on their boats. It’s not seen as housing, but this is their house,” she added.

--> Sign up for our FREE morning newsletter and face each day more informed. --> Sign up for our FREE morning newsletter and face each day more informed.

Do you feel more informed.

As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on the generosity of readers like you to keep all of our stories and resources free during election season—and every day.

Make a gift today to help us keep our news free and accessible for everyone . And if you’re able, please consider a monthly gift to support our work all year-round.

About the Author

Cassie Ordonio was a reporter for Honolulu Civil Beat.

Shootz! Human-Canine Surf Duos, Bringing In The Watercress And Moving In At UH

Paycheck Delays Affect Hundreds Of Teachers In The New School Year

Honolulu Struggles To Find A Remedy For Abandoned Homes Taken Over By Squatters

The DNC Is A Highly Controlled Pep Rally. Hawaii Delegates Say It’s Still Important

The Sunshine Blog: We’ve Been Babysitting The DNC. Thankfully, It’s Pau

Superintendent Says He’s Managing School Facilities Better — But Should That Even Be His Job?

ACLU Wants Federal Authorities To Probe Recent Murder, Violence At Arizona Prison

Get in-depth reporting on hawaii’s biggest issues, sign up for our free morning newsletter.

You're officially signed up for our daily newsletter, the Morning Beat. A confirmation email will arrive shortly.

In the meantime, we have other newsletters that you might enjoy. Check the boxes for emails you'd like to receive.

• Breaking News Alerts What's this? Be the first to hear about important news stories with these occasional emails.
• Special Projects & Investigations What's this? You'll hear from us whenever Civil Beat publishes a major project or investigation.
• Environment What's this? Get our latest environmental news on a monthly basis, including updates on Nathan Eagle's 'Hawaii 2040' series.
• Ideas What's this? Get occasional emails highlighting essays, analysis and opinion from IDEAS, Civil Beat's commentary section.

Inbox overcrowded? Don't worry, you can unsubscribe or update your preferences at any time.

Popular Pages

© Magnum Mania! 2006-2018 Page Last Updated: April 24, 2012

Waikiki Yacht Club

Waikiki yacht club, situated at the edge of honolulu’s ala moana beach park and the ala wai yacht harbor, is one of the premier yacht clubs in the pacific. it has been the home to sailboat racers and fishing enthusiasts since 1944. the club welcomes sailors to its docks and extends reciprocity to visiting yacht club members from around the world.  .

Dining at Waikiki Yacht Club

Waikiki Yacht Club offers a Sunday brunch, and lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

Windward Beat

WYC's monthly magazine, Windward Beat (WWB), keeps members connected around the world.

Privileged members enjoy the fellowship of a uniquely ocean minded community along with dining, pool, facilities and resources available in the world renowned, sun kissed heart of Waikiki, Hawaii.