Boat Trip: Kauai to Midway Atoll — 3 to 5 Days

Midway Atoll lies **1,150 nautical miles (2,130 km) northeast of Kauai**—a significant open-ocean passage.

Voyage Parameters

• Distance: 1,150 NM (Kauai) / 1,240 NM (Honolulu)
• Duration: 3–5 days depending on vessel and weather
• Typical speeds: 8–12 knots (sail), 15–20 knots (power)

Vessel Considerations

• Sailboat (40+ ft): 4–6 days; trade winds (ENE) favorable outbound; return beats
• Motor yacht: 2.5–3.5 days at cruise; fuel range critical (no services)
• Research vessel: NOAA/USFWS ships routine 3-day transits

Midway Access

• **Permit required:** USFWS (Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument)
• **No fuel, supplies, medical** — fully self-sufficient
• **Landing:** Sand Island (runway, harbor) — prior permission mandatory
• **Season:** Avoid hurricane season (Jun–Nov); best Apr–May, Sep–Oct

Alternatives

Charter flight from Honolulu (3.5 hrs, Gulfstream/King Air) — ~$30k+. No commercial service.

This is serious bluewater passage—experienced crew, EPIRB, satcom, ditch bag, weather routing essential.