Karts get rolling at Kalaeloa

Race into the new year at Hawaii’s first indoor electric kart track in Kalaeloa.

Podium Raceway Hawaii invites race fans, motorsport enthusiasts and family members of all ages to its grand opening from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. today.

The quarter-mile indoor concrete track will offer plenty of thrills with four hairpin turns, two straightaways and 35 emission-free European electric karts, which can go up to 45 miles per hour. Sessions last about 10 minutes and include up to 12 drivers competing side by side.

Karts are available for adults a minimum of 55 inches tall, and juniors ages 6 and older who are a minimum of 48 inches tall.

Helmets and gear are provided and required of all drivers, along with a mandatory briefing session on rules and safety. Covered shoes are also required (drivers will not be allowed to race in slippers, sandals or high heels).

One adult race of 14 laps costs $25 for nonmembers, $20 for members. One junior race of nine laps is $20 for nonmembers, $15 for members. An Annual Trackpass membership costs $5.95 and includes use of helmets, head socks, neck cushions and online storage of racing scores.

The facility also includes party rooms and a conference room.

Podium Raceway Hawaii is at 91-1085 Lexington St., Building 1844, in Kalaeloa (formerly Barbers Point). Visit www.PodiumRaceway.com or call 682-7223 for more information.

Star of Honolulu has whale of a deal

Whale-watching season kicks off with a "kids ride free" promotion aboard the Star of Honolulu. Child admission is free with a paying adult. Two cruises depart daily at 8:45 a.m. and noon Dec. 15 through May 8 from Aloha Tower Marketplace, Pier 8.

Among the activities atop the 60-foot observation deck are humpback whale viewing, whale activities with the trained naturalist crew and cultural activities. Whale sightings are guaranteed or riders get a free return cruise ticket until a whale is spotted.

Adult tickets cost $27.77 to $39.87, or $22.49 to $32.29 for kamaaina.

For reservations, call 983-7827 or visit www.starofhonolulu.com.