News 

December 2003

Thar’ she blows

Star guarantees seeing a Whale!

              WAIKIKI , December 17 -- Star of Honolulu is now guaranteeing its 2½-hour Premier Whale Watch Cruise, the most complete whale experience possible with educational whale activities, expert crew, the best facilities.

              Departing daily from Aloha Tower Marketplace, the Star cruises beyond majestic Diamond Head for the unique opportunity to observe Humpback whales in their natural habitat.  From December 17, 2003, to April 30, 2004, all passengers are guaranteed sightings, or receive a free return cruise ticket until a whale is spotted. 

              Appearances of spinner dolphins and sea turtles are also common.  With wrap-around walkways on every level, a 60-foot high observation / sun deck, and high-tech stabilizers designed especially for Hawaiian waters, the smooth-sailing Star features the most open air deck space for spectacular island views and whale watching.  

              Guests gain fascinating insights on whale behavior through expert narration from the Captain and crew of certified Naturalists, an onboard video presentation, and souvenir handout.  In addition, a Hydrophone allows passengers to hear whale songs underwater. 

              As a bonus, cruise-goers can also experience island culture first-hand by participating in activities including lei making, ukulele and hula lessons. 

              Guests may opt for the Deluxe Meal Package and indulge in a savory lunch buffet featuring Kiawe-Smoked Paniolo Roast Beef carved onboard, Huli Huli Chicken, Steamed Mahi Mahi with Ginger Butter Sauce, Lomi Lomi Salmon, Loco Moco, fresh Tropical Fruits, Haupia Dessert, and more.

              Suggested retail prices are $27.95 for adults and $17.00 for children (age 3-11).  The Deluxe Meal Package is priced at $41.95 for adults and $25.00 for children.  Round-trip motorcoach transportation from the Waikiki area may be purchased for an additional $9.00 per person.

              The $7-million Star of Honolulu is Hawaii ’s premier cruise ship, with a capacity of 1,500 and A.D.A. approved facilities for wheelchair-users.  For reservations or more information, call toll-free at 1-800-334-6191 or visit www.starofhonolulu.com.  In Hawaii , call (808) 983-STAR (7827).

New Waikiki show is intimate

By Alvin Koo

              It’s a small room by Vegas standards, but when one of the entrée items is magic, it’s intimate.  Suddenly, a dove appears in less than the blink of an eye.  You promise yourself to watch more closely.  A cockatoo appears.

             With the stamp of a foot, a huge parrot appears and flies around the room, its wingtips nearly touching the audience.  I can feel the rush of air as it beats past, proof positive that the hand is quicker than the eye.

              It’s all part of the latest show in Waikiki , an unlikely combination of two Asians and a small troupe of revved up dancers.  It’s in the Leahi Room of the Waikiki Beach Marriott 6-8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

              The show is called ONE and headlines Hawai‘i’s own Greg Gabaylo, who has amazed audiences nationwide.  His juggling and magic has shared the stage with top celebrities, including Jay Leno, Pat Morita and Eddie Fisher.

              “Now he is the Great Gabaylo,” says Morita.

              Gabaylo’s juggling was impressive and visually interesting when he manipulated balls, juggling with one hand to create different patterns of flight.  It got astounding when he popped open an M&M’s package, hefted up a bowling ball and obtained an egg from his pretty assistant.

              The show continues to adapt, and recently added magician Les Au to its roll.  Au does the birds and a funny magic sword act with a member of the audience.  I’m glad he didn’t pick me.

              The ONE dancers are especially entertaining.  Someone has been very creative with their costumes, going all the way from Hollywood to old Hawai‘i.  And the choreography has modern dance with hints of hula and hula with hints of modern dance.

              Miss Hawai‘i 1997, Erica Kaufman, turns in a nice singing number, and the show is opened by Nelani Smith.

              Dinner is by Marriott executive chef Brendan Mahoney. Complimentary self-parking is available with the purchase of show tickets.  For more information call (808) 921-5000 or (808) 921-2014. 

MACARTHUR OPENS NEW WAIKIKI STORE

              Martin & MacArthur will be opening a new retail showroom, street level at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki in December, their first in Waikiki and fifth in Hawaii .

              Famous for offering their own traditional koa wood furniture and handcrafted island art by over 300 of Hawaii ’s most noted artisans, the retailer’s new store will be located in a prime, oceanfront location on Kalakaua Avenue , across from the “Duke” statue.

              The decision to open a new store is part of Martin & MacArthur’s business plan for slow, steady growth and expansion.  CEO Lloyd Jones says it is important for the visitor market to have exposure to fine quality island products and handcrafted artifacts, and feels that Waikiki is the ideal location. 

              “Our role is to bring the work of hundreds of Hawaii ’s talented artists to the public, particularly to the visiting public who may not be familiar with the art and culture of the region.”  He says this location in Waikiki “will allow us to do a better job.”

              “The merchandise focus of this store will include more exclusive handcrafted island living items,” said Sandy Wooden, retail division manager.  “People have looked for a store offering quality Made in Hawaii goods in Waikiki for years, and we’re excited to fill that niche.” 

              Nancy Bonner, store manager at Ala Moana Center , will bring her experience to the new location and manage the new store’s opening.  Martin & MacArthur is currently located in Aloha Tower Marketplace and Ala Moana Center on Oahu , and Whaler’s Village and The Shops at Wailea on Maui .

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