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Press Release From Flumin Da Ditch "FLUMIN DA DITCH" IS CLOSED After the earthquake of October 15th 2006, the owners of the Kohala Ditch, Surety Kohala Corporation have completed their evaluation of the future of the “Ditch”. It is their conclusion that they may not be able to repair the “Ditch” to allow “Flumin” Tours to proceed safely in the foreseeable future. We regret to inform you that “Flumin Da Ditch” is closed permanently for any future tours. We appreciate all the support you have given us during the past 10 years that enabled us to bring over 150,000 guests to Kohala to meet our great local guides and enjoy the beauty and history of our home.
HMV TOURS HAS RE-OPENED UNDER A NEW NAME AND NEW MANAGEMENT! We are pleased to announce that the Hummer tours resumed operations on December 20, 2006. The tour now includes a new and exciting, spectacular oceanfront addition. Longtime Kama’aina North Kohala residents, Chad and Jenifer Davis will be operating the tour under the new name: For reservations and information please contact: Hummer Safari Tours Chad and Jenifer Davis (808) 889-6922 Fax: (808) 889-6944 E-mail: hummersafaritours@hawaiiantel.net
"FLUMIN DA DITCH" IS CLOSED
Big Island Fun: Intriguing water ride is family friendly
By CAROLE TERWILLIGER MEYERS
Far from the mega-resorts dotting the Kona and Kohala coasts on the Big Island of Hawaii is a unique, low-key, only-in-Hawaii adventure that is perfect for families to enjoy together. Reached by a roller coaster of a road, from which Maui can sometimes be seen just across the ocean channel, this attraction is found up on the very northwestern tip of the island, where the rolling land is lushly green with vegetation.
This intriguing water ride starts in the middle portion of the 22 miles of irrigation flumes built almost 100 years ago to carry water from the rain forests down to the sugar cane fields. The "Cruise," as it is called by the company, is a leisurely trip of about two hours that meanders over a 3.5-mile scenic portion of the system, traveling through pristine rain forests, over ravines and waterfalls and through dark, mysterious tunnels. Though kids used inner tubes and boogie boards in the good old days, we rode in inflatable kayaks that can accommodate up to five people (wet cuddling is part of the fun). No kayaking experience is necessary, as the crafts are basically self-guided by bumping against the sides of the flume. Not being a swimmer, I was relieved to see that the water is never more than waist deep, and the float part of the trip is easy and gentle. It lasts just over an hour. This experience is safe for kids age 5 and older, with the biggest thrills being a cold splash from the "waterfall" of a leaking flume above you and a short float through several dark tunnels (never fear: you'll be provided with a flashlight to wear on your forehead).
Adding to our appreciation of our surroundings, my guide, Hula, filled us in on the area's history, pointed out various sights, and named some of the plants and trees we glided past. Wear a swimsuit under shorts and waterproof shoes -- sports sandals, flip-flops, and reef shoes all work -- and bring plenty of sun lotion. A towel and change of clothes are also a good idea, and don't forget your camera. Upon returning to the office, we were offered a refreshing drink and light snack. On weekends, a crafts market operates adjacent to the office and makes for interesting browsing. And the restaurants and shops of Hawi are just down the road.
IF YOU GO Flum'in Da Ditch -- Off Highway 250, near Hawi, on the Kohala Coast; 877-449-6922, 808-889-6922, www.flumindaditch.com Trips offered year-round, daily at 8:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Reservations required. $99, $68 for ages 5-18. This company also operates HMV Tours in a Hummer into the area's ancient rain forests.
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