After court battles, a legislative showdown, and unexpected weather trouble the Superferry went back to Kahului Harbor Tuesday.

It was a practice run, without passengers, to test the pier and make sure the Ferry still aligned with the barge it uses.

Protestors didn't show up to greet the Superferry but the wind did and it caused some minor issues.

The Superferry was supposed to start service Dec. 1, but it was delayed twice because recent storms damaged its pier.

It was the sight so many have been anticipating or dreading, the Superferry sailing back into Kahului Harbor.

For some it was the first time they had seen the boat that caused such big controversy and were surprised to see it look so small next to the cruise ship that was already docked in the harbor.

"The thing is only small," said Arthur Goings, Maui resident. "It’s like a toy."

"I'm planning on using the Superferry. I have family on every island," Goings said.

Those that watched the Superferry come in were mainly curious. There weren't any protestors and no other boats were affected by the security zone which was activated by the Coast Guard.

"We know there are people that surf there and paddle and recreate there and they were there long before the Alakai decided to transit, so it’s important to balance those needs with the commercial entities that use the port. It's a difficult balance but one we're prepared to do," said Lt. John Titchen, US Coast Guard.

Two small Coast Guard boats did greet the Superferry as it came into the harbor. While this run was quiet they're still ready for anything on Thursday.

"Again we are ready to employ a number of boats if we need to, we have an agile and tactical posture here where we can respond quickly if we need to," Lt. Titchen said.

The Coast Guard reiterated the point that the security zone is temporary and will scale back security as soon as they know people won't cause problems.

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