Our Captains are Coast Guard certified and along with the crew are trained beyond requirements, including CPR certification, “man overboard” rescue training and more.  They also love what they do – “meet wild dolphins^®” everyday!  They’ve built a bond with these marine mammals and want to share the exciting experience with you; you’ll feel it when you meet them.

Wade
Hoku Nai’a Captain Wade is from Hawaii Kai and has been driving boats since he was 12 years old!  He is also a veteran scuba instructor and can share lots of interesting facts about Hawaiian waters and its marine life.

Dean
Hoku Nai’a Manager Dean has been with our company for 13 years.  Born and raised on the west side of Oahu, he is a spear fisherman and skin diver in his free time.  He also loves to cook, so you can ask him for his favorite way to prepare local fish!  He is our #1 dolphin finder and the heart of Hoku Nai’a.

Yuko
Hoku Nai’a Supervisor Yuko loves all kinds of animals, especially dolphins!  From the first day she went to Wai’anae, she fell in love with the beauty of its nature, wildlife and people.  Today, she is thrilled to share the wonders of the west side with guests.  Originally from Japan, she is fluent in English and Japanese and her motto is “when in Hawaii, do as the locals do!”

Richie
A local boy from Wai’anae, Richie is an avid surfer who enters Buffalo’s surf contest every year held at one of West O’ahu’s most popular beaches, Makaha Beach.  When not working on the Hoku Nai’a, you can find him surfing, swimming or hanging out on the beach.

Robin
Also a native of Wai’anae, Robin exemplifies “Aloha.”  She enjoys teaching local keiki (kids) the Hawaiian language and also how to make Hawaiian crafts.  Now a member of the Hoku Nai’a crew, she’ll take care of you and show you the true spirit of Aloha.