Modernizing Hawai‘i’s Interisland Shipping for Reliable Service Statewide

After a year in service, YB’s new barges continue delivering reliable, efficient interisland shipping for Hawai‘i’s ports and communities

As Hawai‘i’s only regulated interisland water carrier, Young Brothers provides frequent and dependable service connecting ports statewide. Now in their first year of service, Kalohi and Nāulu, the company’s newest barges delivered through a $45 million investment, are improving the efficiency of operations across Hawai‘i’s marine highway.  

“Since entering service, these barges have helped us keep service moving for our customers, especially during challenging weather conditions,” said Chris Martin, Vice President of Operations at Young Brothers. “For communities like Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i, that reliability matters because consistent service is essential for everyday life and local businesses—a kuleana we take to heart to ensure Hawai‘i’s people and industries can rely on us to move what matters most every day.” 

Kalohi, inspired by the sparkling channel between Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i, is a 286-foot barge specifically designed for smaller ports like Kaumalapau and Kaunakakai, providing a vital lifeline for these communities. Nāulu, a 365-foot-long barge named after the sudden rain showers in Kawaihae, serves YB’s four largest ports with the fleet’s greatest cargo capacity. Both vessels feature advanced ballast technology to ensure stability during challenging tidal and ocean conditions, along with additional ramps to streamline cargo loading and unloading. Nāulu’s versatile design also allows it to accommodate higher volumes during peak periods.  

Learn more about YB at youngbrothershawaii.com, email info@htbyb.com or call (808) 543-9311.