California and Hawaii – Day Sixteen
Early Birds and Submarine Dreams
Rise and shine! Day sixteen kicked off bright and early, with a thrilling submarine adventure on the horizon. After a quick shower and breakfast, we hopped into an Uber for a short jaunt to the port of Lahaina, Maui. Our driver, a local firefighter juggling three jobs to make ends meet, filled us in on life in Maui post-pandemic. He had plenty of stories and insights, making the ride as smooth as the Hawaiian breeze.
The Warm Welcome at Lahaina Port
Upon arrival, we checked in at the Atlantis IV offices and had a 40-minute wait under a makeshift sunshade. Despite the shade, the Hawaiian sun didn’t take it easy on us, and by the time we boarded the boat to the submarine, my shirt was clinging to me like a second skin. It’s a whole different kind of heat compared to Kauai.
Meeting the Real-Life Moana
As we docked at Lahaina Port, the captain outlined our itinerary and introduced us to Tikki, affectionately dubbed the real-life Moana by the captain. Our granddaughter, Nancy, had requested we keep an eye out for Moana, and lo and behold, there she was! Naturally, a photo with her was a must. We also snagged a pic of Mo’okiha O Pi’ilani, a beauty that took seven years to build on the beach.
Setting Sail for the Submarine
The captain and crew whisked us out to sea, a quick 10-minute sail, until we reached a service tug Roxi. The captain explained this tug was the control hub for the Atlantis IV submarine and, right on cue, we saw the submarine’s silhouette rising from the depths. We waited our turn as the previous batch of adventurers disembarked, then it was our time to cross the gang plank and board the submarine.
Diving Deep
Descending 20 steps into the submarine, we each claimed a porthole seat. Moana narrated the journey, pointing out various marine wonders – fish, Whitetip Reef Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, and even a sunken wreck. The submarine’s captain ensured everyone had a fair view by looping back so all could marvel at the underwater sights. At the wreck, we even spotted divers exploring the eerie underwater scene.
A Taste of Lahaina
Back on dry land, we strolled through Lahaina and settled for lunch at ‘Down the Hatch’. Michele opted for chicken tacos while I savoured shrimp Po’ Boy. Our post-lunch wanderings took us to the town’s famous Banyan tree, an ancient giant with a network of intertwining limbs that seemed straight out of a fairy tale.
An Afternoon of Leisure
Having soaked in Lahaina’s charm, we retreated to the hotel for some much-needed relaxation in the shade. The sun was unrelenting, so cooling off was essential. As evening approached, we enjoyed a serene sunset on the beach, munching on sandwiches and sipping pop (soda). Tomorrow promises an even earlier start with our Road to Hana adventure kicking off at 06:20.
