Judge blocks ferry from using Hawaiian harbor

HONOLULU (AP) — A state judge agreed Monday to temporarily block the first passenger-vehicle ferry service between the Hawaiian Islands from using Maui's Kahului Harbor, giving environmental groups a victory.

Protesters sought the temporary restraining order to halt the Hawaii Superferry from using the harbor until an environmental assessment is conducted. The request does not affect ports on Oahu or Kauai.

The environmentalists argued in a lawsuit that the ferry's plan to ply 400 miles of Hawaii waters each day endangers whales, threatens to spread invasive species and will worsen traffic and pollution.

Superferry officials have said the ship's water jet propulsion system means there are no exposed propellers to strike aquatic animals.