Is There a Ferry from Oahu to Maui?
No—there is no active passenger ferry service between Oahu and Maui.
Hawaii Superferry, the only modern attempt at inter-island ferry service, stopped operating in 2009 due to legal and environmental challenges. Since then, no replacement service has been introduced.
Today, travelers rely on inter-island flights, which are fast, frequent, and widely available.
Best Way to Get from Oahu to Maui
Fly from Honolulu to Kahului
The most efficient way to travel between islands is by flying from Honolulu (HNL) to Kahului (OGG).
What to expect:
- Flight time: about 40 minutes
- Frequent daily departures
- Multiple airline options
- Simple airport-to-airport travel
Flights are the fastest and most reliable way to get from Oahu to Maui.
Why flying is the best option:
- Fastest travel time
- Frequent daily departures
- Flexible scheduling
- Ideal for all types of travelers
Why isn’t there a ferry between Oahu and Maui?
Hawaii Superferry operated briefly in the late 2000s but shut down after legal disputes related to environmental impact reviews.
Despite periodic discussion about reviving ferry service, there are currently no confirmed plans for a new inter-island passenger ferry.
For now, flights remain the standard way to travel.
Other Ways to Travel Between Islands
While flying is the primary method, here are a few additional options to consider:
Shipping a car
If you need a vehicle on Maui, it can be transported separately using cargo shipping services.
Day trips
It is possible to visit Maui from Oahu for a day, though it requires early flights and careful planning.
Cruises
Some cruise itineraries include multiple Hawaiian islands, but these are not practical for direct travel between Oahu and Maui.
FAQ
Why is there no ferry from Oahu to Maui?
There is currently no passenger ferry operating between Oahu and Maui. Travelers typically fly between the islands.
What is the fastest way to get from Oahu to Maui?
Flying is the fastest option and usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Oahu to Maui?
Flights are generally the most affordable and practical option for most travelers.
Can you take a boat between Hawaiian islands?
Not as a standard public option. Private charters and cruises exist, but they are not commonly used for travel between Oahu and Maui.
Should I book flights in advance?
Yes. Booking in advance usually gives you better prices and more schedule options.
Ready to get to Maui?
With no ferry available, flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between islands.