Major car rental firms allow vehicles on Hawaii ferries

Some of the largest car rental firms operating in Hawaii have decided to approve plans to allow renters to take their vehicle hires onto ferries, thus permitting them to enjoy more convenient transportation than ever before during visits to this island state. Hertz, Dollar-Thrifty, Alamo, National and Avis Budget have all reportedly signed on to the new deal with Hawaii’s main ferry company. Previously, ferry operators did not allow rented cars onto their ships and this meant that tourists had to arrange separate car rentals for each island that they visited. The agreement currently only includes ships operated under the “Super Ferry” banner and the deal is also restricted to the route connecting Maui to Oahu. Terry O’Halloran, the ferry company’s Director of Business Development, noted that the new deal between his firm and car rental giants in Hawaii will allow for “seamless” travel between the islands.

Hawaiian websites and newspapers, however, warn that renters should expect surcharges if they wish to take advantage of this new service, as well as possible restrictions on precisely where renters will be able to take their vehicles. As such, those planning on using ferries are well advised to contact their car rental company in advance, in order to find out the specific terms of this new opportunity. Super Ferry carried approximately 21,000 so far this month.

www.hertz.com