Operators should proceed a good distance south of Laau Point. The regular tradewinds follow the Molokai coastline and are usually blowing stronger in this channel due to the position of Maui and Lanai. This area is calm only with north winds and is rough even then if prevailing velocities exceed 30 miles per hour. Small craft are advised to go around Lanai when proceeding to Maui. This area is usually rough and particularly choppy close to shore.
Winds tend to follow the coastline even though they are northeasterly out to sea.
With south winds this area is calm. Pailolo Channel - This channel is usually rough with normal tradewinds and is very bad off the north point of Maui. With normal trades, the winds follow down between Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe. The Kealalkahiki and Auau Channels are calm with gentle southerly breezes. These are particularly bad waters when winds of any appreciable strength are blowing from the north, west, or south.