More than two years after the Lahaina fire, the state has reached a key milestone: the Lahaina small-boat harbor is open for limited commercial operations.
The announcement was made by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation.
Four tour operators, including Atlantis Submarines, began using the harbor Dec. 15, and additional companies will be adding operations there in early 2026.
"We appreciate everyone's patience while [the department] worked with the County of Maui on this limited reopening, to revitalize Maui's economy and help the Maui Nui community move forward together," Boating and Ocean Recreation administrator Meghan Statts said.
"We recognize that this is one of the very first steps being taken toward reopening Lahaina, so we have carefully developed a plan that remains respectful to those affected by the disaster."