HONOLULU -- The Hawaii Superferry sailed the waters Saturday -- staying only along Oahu's south shore.

It was a complimentary cruise for active duty military members and their families.

But also on board were Superferry executives and employees, who said they were hoping to be able to resume regular service soon.

KITV's Denby Fawcett reported that although a court order has barred the Superferry from traveling to Maui during environmental studies, it can cruise freely off Oahu.

Hundreds of military personnel and their families went on board Saturday to do just that -- enjoy a free ferry ride at the invitation of the company.

U.S. Pacific Command Lt. Col. Doug Glasgow brought his wife and two children.

"We are excited about the Superferry. We hope it gets in operation, and the children really love it. It's my son's birthday, so we thought this would be a neat experience," Glasgow said.

Superferry president John Garibaldi said he also hopes to resume regular operations after lawmakers pass a bill to give it the go ahead.

"I think once we get the green light, we will be out there in seven to 10 days," Garibaldi said.

He said when the ferry is back running, he intends to re-hire all 250 laid off workers. Twenty-eight of the recently furloughed employees were brought back Saturday to help

"We hope to be sailing soon. We are doing a special thing for those who served our country. We are excited for them," Superferry employee Ginger Kalamau said.

The Tuisamatatele family was already talking about future ferry trips.

"I would love to go to Kauai take my own car and just go visiting vacation," Jennifer Tuisamatatele said.

Military families booked up all three free voyages Saturday.

The ferry Sunday will have two more hospitality voyages, and then it will be on stand by for what it hopes will be a resumption of permanent service.