BY TREY GARMAN – OUTRIGGER Hosts across the globe jumped into action on World Ocean Day – Saturday, June 8 – to support the protection of the ocean and make a difference where they live, work & play.
The international day of collaborative conservation efforts has been officially recognized by the United Nations since 2008 and celebrated by OUTRIGGER through its own conservation initiative – OUTRIGGER Zone – since its inception in 2014.
Here’s a look at all the amazing OUTRIGGER activations that took place on this special day:
OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort (FOR)
213KG of Rubbish Removed
BY ASHNEEL CHAND – The World Ocean Day theme for 2024 is Catalyzing action for our Ocean & Climate, so with that in mind, the team from FOR together with guests set out to recognize the auspicious day by conducting a beach and roadside clean up. Joining us were members from the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park which made all the difference in covering so much land and beach area. Starting from Korotogo roundabout, along sunset strip road and beach then back on the resort beachfront, we picked up assorted rubbish along the way from broken beer bottles, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, tin cans and the list goes on. We were very fortunate to have such a good attendance collecting over 213kg of rubbish! We also went the extra mile and sorted the rubbish into recyclables and non-recyclables. From this activity we can imagine how much rubbish potentially could have entered our oceans. In addition to the activity, FOR hosts and guests were involved in making of 10 fish house that will be planted for the marine life to grow and enjoy. We hope that more guests, hosts and locals will join us in to keep our beaches and community clean by doing these small acts of service.
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OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort (OKB)
Celebrating World Ocean Day with Cultural and Environmental Stewardship
BY VENUS BRAVO YI – World Ocean Day, celebrated annually on June 8, serves as a global call to action to protect our planet’s vital marine ecosystems. This year’s theme, “Waves of Change: Collective Actions for the Ocean,” highlighted the importance of united efforts in ocean conservation. OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort embraced this theme with a day filled with meaningful activities, blending environmental stewardship with cultural enrichment.
Beach Cleanup: Community and Commitment
The day began with a beach cleanup led by OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort and Hawai’i Vacation Condos by OUTRIGGER hosts. Our dedicated team gathered on the pristine sands of Kāʻanapali Beach, equipped with gloves, bags, and a shared mission: to maintain the beauty and health of their beloved coastline. This collective effort not only removed debris but also reinforced the resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
Blessing of the Outrigger Canoes: A Symbol of Resilience and Tradition
Following the cleanup, a traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony was held for the resort’s outrigger canoes. These canoes are more than just vessels; they are a symbol of Hawaiian heritage and the deep connection between the people and the ocean. The blessing set the stage for a unique experience: complimentary outrigger canoe rides offered to guests and the local community throughout the day.
Canoe Rides: A Special Tribute Led by Fabio
The canoe rides were led by Fabio, a beloved community member who lost everything in the devastating Lahaina fires last year. Fabio’s resilience and passion for sharing Hawaiian culture shone through as he guided guests on these special excursions. His infectious enthusiasm and profound knowledge offered participants a deeper appreciation of the ocean and its significance to Hawaiian life. Fabio’s involvement underscored the resort’s dedication to providing authentic cultural experiences while fostering a sense of community and support.
Cultural Classes: Bridging the Ocean and Hawaiian Culture
Throughout the day, guests were invited to participate in six cultural classes, each designed to illuminate the profound connections between the ocean, the land, and Hawaiian culture. These classes offered a unique blend of education and engagement, celebrating the rich traditions of Hawaiʻi.
1. Mākaʻikaʻi | Garden Tour Guests enjoyed a guided stroll through the resort’s gardens, learning about the cultural, spiritual, and medicinal significance of the diverse plant life. The tour highlighted the intrinsic link between the land and the ocean.
2. Pānana | Ocean Navigation This class explored traditional Hawaiian navigation techniques, emphasizing the harmony between natural elements and seafaring practices. Participants discovered the ancient wisdom of reading the stars, waves, and winds.
3. Hula | Dance of Hawaiʻi Guests were introduced to the fundamental movements of hula, gaining insights into Hawaiian language and history. Special focus was given to hula motions that narrate stories of the ocean.
4. Lei | Kukui Restringing Returning guests brought their kukui nut leis for a special restringing activity. Participants learned about the various uses of the kukui nut and its arrival in Hawaiʻi via canoe, symbolizing resilience and continuity.
5. Mo’olelo | Storytelling Attendees were captivated by ocean-themed stories that conveyed profound life lessons, cultural values, and Hawaiian traditions. These narratives highlighted the ocean’s role in shaping the Hawaiian worldview.
6. ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i | Hawaiian Language This linguistic journey delved into the Hawaiian alphabet, words, and phrases, focusing on oceanic terms. Through stories, place names, and proverbs, participants discovered how the ocean is deeply embedded in the Hawaiian language and perspective.
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OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort Canoe Sailing Team Joins FestPAC Hoʻi Mau I ka Iwikuamoʻo: Waʻa Community Day on O‘ahu
The third race in the 2024 Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Association (HSCA) season was held on World Ocean Day, June 8, in conjunction with the 13th annual Festival of Pacific Arts.
Captain Ray Glauser guided the OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort Canoe Sailing Team to a fifth-place finish in the race from Waimānalo to Kualoa. The team then joined the FestPAC celebration, Hoʻi Mau I ka Iwikuamoʻo: Waʻa Community Day at Kualoa Regional Park.
The event was open to the public and included waʻa tours, knot tying, star compass activities, live music, hula performances, and more.
“We planned our yearly racing series just so we could be here today and to see the Waʻa’s from around the world is just awesome,” said Glauser.
The HSCA’s yearly racing series, which kicked off May 17 at Kāʻanapali Beach, connects the Hawaiian Islands. The next race, Na Holo Kai, is July 6 from Haleiwa on Oahu to Nawiliwili on Kaua’i.
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Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Celebration and Conservation
OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort’s celebration of World Ocean Day was not just a one-time event but a reaffirmation of their ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and cultural preservation. The resort plans to make the canoe rides a regular feature for guests, ensuring that the spirit of World Ocean Day continues throughout the year. By intertwining cultural activities with environmental stewardship, OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort has set a powerful example of how collective actions can lead to meaningful change. This World Ocean Day, they have not only celebrated the ocean but have also inspired a deeper connection and responsibility towards its preservation.
OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa (KBR)
KBR x Hoʻomalu Ke Kai Host Inaugural Kauaʻi Community Cleanup and Celebration of the Ocean
BY FRANK GUARIN – More than 100 community members & hotel guests, plus 20 partner organizations took park in the first-ever Kauaʻi Community Cleanup and Celebration of the Ocean at Nukoliʻi Beach on World Ocean Day.
“We want to extend our sincere mahalo nui loa for all of your effort and support during the World Ocean Day event,” said Tim Leichliter, President of Ho’omalu Ke Kai – OUTRIGGER’s Kaua‘i-based nonprofit dedicated to ocean conservation and restoration.
“As our conservation partner, OUTRIGGER played an integral role in making this our most successful event to date. Your dedication and hard work, from the event planning and marketing, to the volunteer efforts, ensured that the day flowed seamlessly.”
Through the combined efforts of volunteers, including OKB’s amazing housekeeping staff, more than 1,000 pounds of marine debris was removed from Nukoli’i Beach in front of OUTRIGGER Kauaʻi Beach Resort & Spa.
“This accomplishment is a significant win for our ocean, and it was heartwarming to witness the spirit of aloha and mālama in action,” said Leichliter. “Your commitment to our cause and your partnership in conservation efforts mean the world to us. We look forward to continuing this journey together and making an even greater impact in the years to come.”
In addition to the beach cleanup, attendees explored vendor booths from ocean, nature and conservation-based organizations, enjoyed food provided by on-property restaurants and entertainment from local artists.
Furthering OUTRIGGER’s commitment to ocean and coral conservation through the OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative, the brand’s newest property also partnered with Ho‘omalu Ke Kai to create beach clean-up kits for public use. The first beach clean-up station was unveiled at this event along with a waste diversion station for marine debris found along the beach. Marine debris collected from the event was off-site to Hoʻomalu Ke Kaiʻs upcycling facility to be upcycled into building material and artwork, a project funded by County of Kauaʻi.
The OUTRIGGER Zone conservation initiative serves to provide enriching experiences to guests, hosts and local communities whilst ensuring their properties actively do their part to protect our oceans and help them thrive for generations to come.
OUTRIGGER Khao Lak Beach Resort (TKL)
Thailand Hosts Release Turtles, Clean Beach & Plant a Tree
BY SUJITTRA RONGMUANG – On World Ocean Day, TKL collaborated with the Marine and Coastal Resources Office 6, Phang-Nga Naval Base Third Navel Area Command and local conservation groups in the release of 15 sea turtles. After discovering their eggs, the turtles were cared for over seven months, demonstrating a committed approach to marine conservation. After releasing the turtles into the sea, we cleaned Thai Muang Beach in Phang- Nga and planted a tree, contributing to preserving our oceans and coastal ecosystems.
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OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa (OKR)
REEF TEACH Team Jumps into Action at OKR
BY FRANCINE MASUHARA-MOLINA – To celebrate World Ocean Day our talented culinary team prepared some beautiful treats, while our Director of Cultural Experiences, Nani Kupihe, hosted our REEF TEACH ‘ohana who shared educational ocean information with our guests.
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OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort (MAM)
Hosts Show Love for Lonubo, Guests go on Manta Ray Excursions in Mahibadhoo
BY SANYA SHANTANU SHETE – World Ocean Day is a special occasion dedicated to acknowledging the vital role our oceans play in our everyday lives and inspiring positive actions to protect marine ecosystems. This global observance brings to light the indispensable contributions of the oceans in sustaining life on Earth. The ocean is a lifeline, essential for the sustenance of humanity and all other organisms on our little blue planet that we call home.
Our celebration began with a memorable Manta excursion. This event was remarkable as we observed a near record number of Reef Manta Rays aggregating in Mahibadhoo (a site within South Ari Atoll), an anomalous characteristic of this time of year. The guests were thrilled by this unique and enriching experience, making it a highlight of the day’s activities.
In the evening, we organized a beach cleanup that was open to all staff members. Addressing the ongoing issues facing our oceans, particularly plastic pollution, is crucial. This problem is not only prevalent in the Maldives but also across the globe. In less than an hour, our dedicated team managed to remove nearly all the garbage around our little twin island, Lonubo, filling almost 12 bags. This collective effort further highlights the importance of taking proactive measures to preserve our marine environments.
These activities on World Ocean Day underscore our commitment to environmental stewardship and highlight the essential role each of us plays in protecting our oceans. By fostering awareness and encouraging action, we aim to contribute to the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems for future generations. Happy World Ocean Day from all of us here at Maafushivaru.
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OUTRIGGER Mauritius Beach Resort (MOR)
Bis Lamer Bus Drives Home Reef Conservation Message
BY KHARESHMA SONOO RAJJOO – This year for World Ocean Day at MOR we had the Bis Lamer* in front of the lobby for guests, hosts and students to visit. We also had students from Grade 5 and Grade 6 from Bel Ombre Government School learn from the Reef Conservation staff. The students studied climate change, global warming and our coral reefs through interactive games.
*Bis Lamer translates as “Sea Bus” – it’s goal is to bring marine science and environmental issues to a number of different audiences by delivering various sensitization sessions.
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OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort (ORF)
Powerful Midway Monk Seal Sustainable Art Exhibit Unveiled
“Speaking for Nature” – an Environmental Art exhibit created by renowned sustainable artist Jodi Endicott – was unveiled at ORF on World Ocean Day.
Endicott used everyday items such as a plastic bicycle seat, gas cap, rice paddles, sunglasses, welding helmet and other recognizable pieces to create life-size monk seals from marine plastics collected from Midway Atoll.
“Given we want to do something great for FestPAC, Luana Maitland (Area Director of Cultural Experience) and I discussed how we could install four or five NEW mixed-media Monk Seals that combine the derelict fishing nets and marine debris plastics from Papahanaumokuakea,” explained Endicott. “This is very fitting for the cultural exchange as these invasive materials are a sustainability issue to all ocean cultures and ocean voyagers. The far-away plastics floated the ocean for years and are now embedded in our marine life and food chain. Such plastics show the impact of our everyday behaviors on our global environment.”
At the unveiling, Endicott was joined by Jennifer Lynch and Katherine Stevens from Hawai‘i Pacific University’s Center for Marine Debris Research (CMDR), along with Kevin O‘Brien and James Morioka from the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project.
The Midway Monk Seal exhibit, along with another one called “Nest” that features netting, fishing floats, world globe and float displayed at OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach, will be free to the public to visit through the end of July in recognition of Plastic Free July.
Jodi Endicott is an established contemporary artist who has lived and created art in Hawai‘i for over 30 years. The hope is that her work empowers all of us to see things differently so we make changes to have a more caring, equitable and respectful existence on planet earth.
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OUTRIGGER Surin Beach Resort (TPM)
Caring for Sea Turtles with the Phuket Marine Biological Centre
BY SUKANYA SOMPHAN – On World Ocean Day 30 of our hosts and management team joined a marine sustainability educational session hosted by the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC) then scrubbed the sea turtle nursery ponds and cleaned the turtle shells. The following morning, the team continued with a beach clean-up, a monthly activity held to ensure our beach remains clean and safe for our guests, community and hosts.
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Upcoming World Ocean Month Activities
June 13: Beach Clean-up at Castaway Island, Fiji. 3:30pm
June 14: Ban Tan Crab Bank Releasing up to 5,000 baby crabs into the ocean. Guests and hosts at OUTRIGGER Koh Samui Beach Resort in Thailand are invited to join local organization to release the crabs, part of an initiative to educate fisherman on sustainable fishing practices and increasing the crab population.
June 15: O Ke Kai Series with Friends of Hokulea and Hawai’i Loa. A cultural exchange with Youth Group from Aotearoa, New Zealand, and part of the 13th annual Festival of the Pacific Arts (FestPAC). Hands-on workshop with canoe building and wood master, Tay Perry. Workshop to include navigating compass with Hokule’a 2014 canoe captain, Keahi Omai, plus talk story with Bishop Museums Exhibit Designer & Hokule’a 2023 crew member Mike Wilson. Artist Leohone Muzno will be presenting wa`a prints to raffle, with proceeds to benefit FHH. The event includes fun activities for kids and live Hawaiian music by Kawika Kahiapo. At the A’o Cultural Center | OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
June 15: TOMA x World Ocean Day Solo Art Show and Fundraiser for Wastewater Alternatives and Innovations (WAI) featuring print surf photography by Giancarlo Beroldo, AKA Gsea, plus live performances by TwinFin + Connor Johnson | OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
June 20:
- Ke Kani O Ke Kai Concert at Waikiki Aquarium. A special super-sized concert featuring Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning artists Kawika Kahiapo, Bobby Moderow, Robi Kahakalau, and Makana, with additional artists and halau to be announced soon. Food vendors will include Da Spot, Local Poke Bowl, Simply Ono, and Il Gelato (6-9pm).
- Fish House Making at Castaway Island, Fiji. 3:00pm
June 22: Flow. Sip. Shop – Nalu Health Bar Free Yoga, Pop-Up Shop + Coffee & Water Event. Support Local, Eco-Friendly Brand One Om with free yoga for 30 minutes, pop-up of upcycled and sustainable yoga clothes and hemp bags with One Om. Free drip coffee by Nalu Health Bar and free filtered water by Waiea to anyone who brings a reusable cup or bottle to promote bringing your own, decreasing waste, and having good coffee and water. Waikiki Beach Walk (8-11:30am)
June 27: Under Water Clean-up at Castaway Island, Fiji. 10am
June 29: OZONE DAY
- OUTRIGGER Zone Day – Join ocean-minded organizations as we make Genki Balls for the Ala Wai Project and share educational activities on the lawn to incite action to conserve precious resources.
- Duke’s Malama Crew Beach Clean-up at OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort