Travel Briefs
Star-Bulletin staff
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Spot whales in Big Isle waters
Maui doesn't have a lock on visiting humpbacks. Hula Kai's Whale Watch Cruise welcomes the annual return of the humpback whales with cruises in Keauhou Bay on the Big Island through March 31, 2008.
The cruise departs at 3 p.m. daily, and at 11:30 a.m. on Mondays and Fridays. The cost per person is $75 plus tax (minimum age is 8). Snacks and tropical juices are included, and a no-host bar is available. Capacity is limited to 42 passengers.
On board the 55-foot Technicraft power catamaran, you'll learn about Hawaii's ancient ties to these gentle underwater giants through the Hawaiian kumulipo (creation chants).
Marine naturalist Jonathan Opey will share information about humpback whale behavior in the waters of Alaska, where they feed, and in the warm waters of Hawaii where they mate and give birth. A hydrophone allows guests to listen to the underwater songs of the humpback whale.
If you can't make it to the Big Island, you can also catch whale sightings from your desk. Log onto www.fair-wind.com for whale activity updates and sightings with photographs.
For more information, call 800-644-9461 or visit www.fair-wind.com.
Holiday fare at Island Air
Island Air continues its holiday spirit by offering discounted interisland fares into the new year.
The $99 round-trip fare includes all taxes and fees, and is good for travel through March 20, 2008. The last day to purchase tickets is Dec. 31, and purchases must take place online.
The airline offers 465 weekly flights between the islands of Oahu, Maui (Kahului and Kapalua airports), Molokai, Lanai, Kauai, and the Big Island (Hilo and Kona international airports).
Seats are capacity-controlled and other restrictions may apply. Itinerary changes are subject to a change fee and/or collection of fare difference. The fare is nonrefundable and nontransferable.
For reservations and flight information, visit www.islandair.com, or call 840-2400.