Kona Ocean Experience Mission Statement
Kona Ocean Experience’s quest in providing exciting ocean adventures that fulfill vacation dreams is dedicated to: ensuring our activities and interactions are environmentally and culturally sensitive, protecting the natural beauty of Hawaii, respectfully honoring its indigenous cultural heritage, educating visitors in ethical travel behavior, and promoting balanced sustainability beyond financial profit that positively impacts our unique Hawaiian environment for future travelers to enjoy.
Kona Ocean Experience (KOEX) is one of the very first companies in Hawaii to provide the opportunity for guests from all of the world, and especially Japan, to experience the amazing spinner dolphins in the water. Originally Mele Nai’a, KOEX started with a single Willard U.S. Navy Seals Boat. Priding ourselves from our beginning on taking a respectful and “pono” approach to Hawaii’s wildlife, we gradually expanded to add an additional boat. Our two vessels “Harmony” and “Horizon” provide safe and uncrowded seating for our guests.
In 2010, our name was changed to Kona Ocean Experience to reflect our overall approach and having our guests experience the whole range of Hawaii’s beauty, including the historical preserve waters of Kealakekua Bay and a tour of the coastline explaining Hawaii’s history and culture to gain understanding of the importance of this area to Hawaii and her people.
In 2015, Kona Ocean Experience transferred to new ownership and management under the leadership and direction of Melissa “Bambi” Worst.
Our Values and Business Philosophy:
We embrace the following ethical and philosophical principles that support the team spirit of our company:
Pono: Righteous, honest, and with morality and an energy of necessity infused by trust and respect, gratitude, acceptance, and purposefulness.
Kuleana: Responsibility and rights with concern for all interests, property, people, and the natural environment.
Aloha: Hello, goodbye, love, kindness and grace, unity, humility, patience, and waiting for the right moment.