Sailing around the Hawaiian islands is not for the unwary, or the inexperienced. The islands are isolated in the middle of the Pacific and seas can be rough, but the coastal views of the Big Island’s volcanoes still spilling white hot lava into the sea, the sunsets off Maui or the North Beach of Oahu, the sheer cliffs of the Na Pali coast of Kauai rising 4000 feet straight out of the sea, all these can only be appreciated from the ocean.

Hawaii’s Big Island – is the youngest of all six of the Hawaiian Islands and is still growing, possibly because it is home to one of the world’s most active volcano’s (Kilauea), the tallest sea mountain (Mauna Kea) and the most massive mountain in the world (Mauna Loa). There are lush rain forests, volcanic desserts, snow capped mountains and Black sandy beaches, all on the same island.

Maui is the second largest of the islands. Stand high above the sea of clouds on top of Haleakala, watch a 45 foot whale breach off the coast and lose count of the waterfalls along the hairpin bends of the Hana highway. Maui’s smaller population makes it popular with visitors looking for small towns and airy resorts.

Lanai is the smallest island but still manages to squeeze in three golf courses. There is an intriguing course which is relatively small at 6,200 yards and winds over gulches and through hills, each hole has amazing views from mountain ravines to the ocean and is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and soaring pines. There is an even more challenging course at Manele which roams across hundreds of acres of plunging ravines and lava outcrops, native kiawe and towering trees.

Molokai is the 5th largest island. Imagine a Hawaii of the past, no skyscrapers or stoplights, unspoiled country and untouched white sandy beaches. It is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide and is home to the worlds highest cliffs and Hawaii’s longest continuous reef. With a large percentage of the population being of native Hawaiian ancestry, the culture thrives as they continue their rural lifestyle.

Oahu – is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, where east meets west. The clear blue waters of Kailua beach meets the cityscape’s of Honalulu. The historic Iolani Palace meets the memories of Pearl Harbor. The big city of Waikiki meets the small town of Haleiwa. There is variety to be found at every turn in Oahu.

Kauai – is the 4th largest and the oldest island and is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires, jagged cliffs, tropical rainforest’s and cascading waterfalls, some parts of the island are only accessible by sea. The island has a laid back atmosphere and surprisingly is home to a variety of outdoor activities.

All of the islands are incredible, but the voyage is not without it’s risks. Checkout your boat and your equipment before you set off and be doubly certain of your radio, just in case.

Author Bio: Whenever heading anywhere on a boat safety needs to be the first thing on your mind. A reliable form of communication can be a lifesaver in an emergency. You have several options, a traditional marine or cb radio, a Handheld CB Radio or 10 Meter Radios. A 10 meter radio offers greater broadcasting power while a handheld model offers portability and no installation.

Category: Travel
Keywords: cb radio, travel, sailing