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Frequently

Asked 

Questions

What is the distance across the Kaiwi Channel?

The shortest distance across the Kaiwi Channel is 27 miles, though most swims cover about 28.5 statute miles from the starting point to the finish. Before beginning your swim, discuss with your crew and boat pilot how you'd prefer distances to be measured—whether in nautical miles, kilometers, or statute miles.

Where should we stay?

Staying in Waikiki or nearby is ideal, with plenty of options depending on your budget. The most affordable accommodations start around $250 per night. It's worth checking travel websites for hotels, VRBOs or Airbnb. You will only need one night on Molokai at most, as most swimmers opt to fly in and start the swim immediately. Whether to spend a day or night on Molokai can be decided in advance or once you arrive.

 

Can we travel to Molokai by boat instead of flying?

While traveling to Molokai by boat is technically possible, it is not recommended. The trip can be extremely rough, and many swimmers who have attempted it have regretted the decision. The journey is exhausting, and if you are prone to seasickness, it could affect your overall performance. However, in calm conditions, it may be feasible.

 

Do we need kayakers?

Yes, kayakers are mandatory. The Kaiwi Channel is often too rough for the boat to stay close to the swimmer, and even when it is nearby, it won't follow a straight path. Kayakers help keep you on course, as they can steer a more direct line and receive course corrections from the boat. For both safety and navigation, we use two kayakers, ensuring that one is always by your side. With three kayakers, they rotate in 1.5-hour shifts. These kayakers are experienced and well-versed in navigating the channel, making their presence essential.

 

What are the estimated costs for the swim?

  • $1,000 for Kaiwi Channel Association Consulting Services (includes KCA membership)

  • $100 for Kaiwi Channel Association Membership Only (required for swim ratification)

  • $5,000+ for boat (varies based on the boat and duration of the swim)

  • Approximately $1,200 for three kayakers

  • $100+ for a flight to Molokai

  • $50 for a cab or Uber ride from Molokai Airport to the swim start

  • $250–$500 for accommodations on Molokai

  • Costs for accommodations in Waikiki and travel to Hawaii will vary.

 

How do I find a boat pilot?

We have a curated list of highly experienced boat pilots who meet our rigorous standards. Once you pay the $1,000 fee, we’ll assist you in finding both a boat pilot and kayakers. If you book more than a year in advance, we’ll help you secure these details in January of your swim year.

What's the next step?

We operate within one-week windows. You can swim any day when conditions are favorable, though the boat captain has the final say. If you know when you’d like to swim, check with us for availability. The busiest months are July, August, and September, while swims are not possible from November through February due to variable conditions.. From there, we’ll guide you through every step, from finding the best pilots to helping you finalize your swim plans. We’ll send an invoice, payable via credit card or PayPal, and continue assisting with all the logistics leading up to your swim.

 

 

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