Why Dry Dock Matters: A Maui Sailboat in Kona

September 30, 2025
   Every so often, even the most seaworthy vessel needs a little time ashore. This fall, Island Star made the trip over to Kona for two weeks of dry dock. It’s a chance to give her some love, keep her safe, and make sure she’s ready for many more miles under sail. Led by our main captain, Bryan, the crew rolled up their sleeves and got to work.

Why We Dry Dock

Dry dock is the behind the scenes part of boat life that most guests never see. Every 18 to 24 months, Island Star comes out of the water so we can tackle the projects that keep her steady, comfortable, and Coast Guard approved. It’s hard work, but it’s the kind that ensures every family, couple, and crew member aboard can focus on the beauty of Maui waters instead of the mechanics beneath them.

Major Projects in Kona

This round of dry dock included a long checklist of important jobs:

  • Required USCG hull inspection
  • Required replacement of all turnbuckles, completed by Sam Gary
  • Bottom paint by the crew, with Kyle from Akazawa Painting leading the effort
  • Port topside hull repairs and paint
  • Starboard topside cleaning and polish
  • Painting top deck treaded areas with moondust
  • Spot painting with white after deck repairs
  • Replacement of the port aft plexiglass port light and caulking of all hull port lights
  • Replacement and repairs on three large areas of soft deck by Andy and Cole
  • Cleanup of epoxy overhangs and repainting of white areas

At the machine shop, Demitrious trued the prop, shaft, coupler, and dripless packing, and also applied prop speed paint treatment to the prop and strut. Andy and Cole also replaced a bent stanchion and resecured another with through bolts.

Fresh Paint and Strong Decks

   One of the big jobs this round was a brand new coat of bottom paint, and we were lucky to have Kyle of Akazawa Painting leading the effort alongside our crew. This protective layer keeps the hull clean, smooth, and free of unwanted growth like algae or barnacles, making for a faster, more efficient sail. Up top, we re-fiber glassed the deck, sealing and strengthening the surfaces that take the brunt of sun, salt, and bare feet day after day.

Upgrades Below Deck

   Inside the cabin, Chandler saved the day with his plumbing skills, and new plumbing systems now keep the sinks and heads flowing reliably, while every line and connection got a careful once-over. These are the little details guests don’t see, but they make every trip smoother and more comfortable.

Safety First

   When the tools were put away and the paint was dry, Island Star was ready for her Coast Guard inspection. Passing with flying colors, she is now officially shipshape and ready to welcome guests back aboard with the highest safety standards in place.

Harbor Life in Kona

   Of course, dry dock isn’t all work. Our days were long, filled with sanding, painting, and repairs, but the evenings brought Kona sunsets and plenty of laughs. And yes, we probably ate a little too much at Harbor House Restaurant by the marina. (Worth it.) It’s all part of the rhythm of boat life: hard work balanced with simple joys by the water.

The Crossings

   The trip over to Kona was made with Bryan, Sean, Kralyn, Evan, Chandler, and Kadyn. The sail back to Maui brought together Bryan, Roland, Kralyn, Evan, Jane, Caitlin, Chandler, and Marcella. Each leg of the journey was another reminder of the teamwork and seamanship that keep Island Star strong.

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Back Home in Maalaea

Now that the work is complete, Island Star is back home in Maalaea Harbor on Maui. She’s freshly painted, strengthened, inspected, and ready to sail. We can’t wait to share the ocean with you again, whether that’s snorkeling vibrant reefs, watching the trades fill the sails, or simply relaxing on deck with good company.

FAQ

  • How often does Island Star go into dry dock?
    About every 18 to 24 months, depending on wear, weather, and inspection schedules.
  • What’s the purpose of bottom paint?
    It protects the hull from growth like algae and barnacles, helping the boat move smoothly and efficiently.
  • Does dry dock affect guest trips?
    Yes, we pause charters during dry dock, but the time is well worth it for safety, comfort, and performance.

Thank You All

   I want to send a heartfelt mahalo to everyone who made this dry dock possible: Captain Bryan and crew, Sam Gary, Kyle from Akazawa Painting, Chandler, Andy, Cole, Demitrious, Sean, Kralyn, Evan, Kadyn, Roland, Jane, Caitlin, Marcella, Kona Marine Supply, plus the great guys working for The Yard, Bennen and Kris. A big thanks as well to Gentry's Kona Marina for their support along the way. Sailing Maui on Island Star, our classic 57 foot Columbia, steady, roomy, and all about good vibes. Mahalo for supporting local. With gratitude, Curtis Robinson, Owner.

Ghostly Warriors of Hawaiʻi: The Legend of the Night Marchers

October 18, 2025
Halloween is just around the corner, and as the veil between worlds grows thin, it’s the perfect time to explore one of Hawaiʻi’s most haunting legends. The islands are rich with moʻolelo, traditional stories that blend history, spirituality, and mystery. Among the many spooky tales whispered across Hawaiʻi, none capture the imagination quite like the legend of the Night Marchers, or Huakaʻi Pō. Who Are the Night Marchers? According to legend, the Night Marchers are the restless spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors. On certain moonlit nights, they march along old pathways from mountain ridges to coastal plains, escorting the spirits of aliʻi (chiefs) or reenacting ancient processions. Witnesses describe the eerie beat of drums, the flicker of torches through the mist, and rhythmic chanting carried on the wind. Island Variations Each island carries its own version of the legend. On Oʻahu, the marchers are said to travel through valleys like Nuʻuanu and Mānoa. On Kauaʻi, stories tell of torchlit lines crossing cliffs and ridges. On Hawaiʻi Island, the processions are often tied to lava fields and ancient battle sites. Even Maui has whispers of its own trails where drums might echo on still nights. These variations show how the legend is rooted in the land itself, shaped by local geography and memory. What To Do If You Encounter Them If you happen upon the Night Marchers, the only safe response is to lie face down, eyes to the ground, and remain still. It’s not fear that keeps people cautious, but respect. These spirits are considered powerful and sacred—embodiments of Hawaiʻi’s deep connection to ancestry and place. Their stories remind us that the past still walks beside us, especially on nights when the moonlight and the mana feel strong. Explore More Hawaiian Ghost Stories If this story sparks your curiosity for Hawaiʻi’s spooky side, there are many books and collections that share tales like this—equal parts ghost story and cultural treasure. Here are a few to check out: Hawaiian Legends of Ghosts and Ghost-Gods by W. D. Westervelt The Legend of Morgan’s Corner and Other Ghost Stories of Hawaiʻi by Lopaka Kapanui Haunted Hawaiian Nights by Lopaka Kapanui The Secret Obake Casebook: Tales from the Dark Side of the Cabinet by Glen Grant Obake: Ghost Stories in Hawaiʻi by Glen Grant Mahalo for supporting local! As Halloween approaches and the trades carry a chill through the palms, remember to tread lightly, listen closely, and show respect for the stories that have lived here far longer than any of us.

You can charter any one of our vessels to take you snorkeling from Lahaina.

By Anthony • October 12, 2015
 Our trips take you snorkeling from Lahaina acoss to the island of Lanai and the waters around the West side of Maui.  Maui and Lanai are known for their crystal clear waters and the abundance of beautiful creatures living just below the surface. As a result, one of the most popular activities for visitors to Maui is snorkeling – […] The post You can charter any one of our vessels to take you snorkeling from Lahaina. appeared first on Island Star Excursions.

Are you looking for a whale watching tour. We offer the finest private boat charters on Maui.

By Anthony • October 12, 2015
The humpbacks are a part of the Maui seascape every year between December and May. If you plan to visit the islands this winter you really must go on a whale watching tour. Keep in mind that this also high season here on Maui. You should try to book well in advance.This is the time of […] The post Are you looking for a whale watching tour. We offer the finest private boat charters on Maui. appeared first on Island Star Excursions.