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Swimming with wild dolphins is on the bucket list of many visitors’ when they come to Hawaiʻi. While the thought of gliding alongside these majestic creatures may appeal to many, swimming with wild dolphins may constitute harassment under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Human contact with these beautiful marine mammals can have a devastating impact…

The Island of Hawaiʻi is known for its gorgeous sunsets, pristine waters, beautiful landscapes and friendly people. There’s nothing like a perfect holiday in paradise to relax, re-energize and enjoy life to its fullest. However, while it’s important to pack your sunscreen and bikini, it’s also good to remind yourself that occasionally plans can go array. The Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaiʻi Island, also known as VASH, is here to assist visitors to the island who experience adversity. VASH recognizes that even during the fun and relaxation of vacations, unfortunate events can happen. And when far from home, visitors do not usually have access to their own support systems and resources. VASH shares the aloha spirit with visitors affected by adversity. They also stress the following safety tips, to ensure your vacation is filled with positive, tropical memories. Ocean…

There’s nothing quite like a Hawaiian vacation. Snorkeling, whale watching and cruising the beautiful Kona Coast, is a paradise lover’s dream come true. Yet, while our pristine warm waters and tropical marine life is second to none, Kona is also known for its delicious above ground treasure. Kona’s world-famous “coffee belt” is only about a…

One of the most wondrous living things on earth is coral. Humans view its diversity and hues as a gorgeous, underwater decoration. But, it is a living organism that supports the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of species in the underwater ecosystem. Man may appreciate its wonder, but our destructive tendencies are harming this vital member of the oceans and seas. Here’s what you need to know about the grave threats facing coral reefs. If we don’t act soon, we may destroy these beautiful pieces of the earth. What Exactly Is Coral? Corals are relatives of the sea anemone. They are all made of the same simple structure: the polyp. The polyp resembles a tin can open at one end: the open end has a mouth surrounded by tentacles. The tentacles have stingers called nematocysts, that let the coral…

Author Robert Swan said the greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it. When it comes to our oceans and waters, that threat is becoming all too real. Plastics are putting marine animals and other sea life in real danger and environmentalists are sounding the alarm to the rest…

  Hawaiʻi Island is famous for its pristine waters and gorgeous, underwater sanctuaries, making it one of the most popular snorkeling destinations on earth. With its colorful array of sea creatures, it’s no wonder people from all over the world descend upon Kailua-Kona every year to get up-close-and-personal with some of Mother Nature’s most magnificent marine life. One of the most beloved fish in the sea is Hawaiʻi’s official state fish—the humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa, or humu for short. This little creature, with a not so little name, became the state fish in 1985, after being chosen by a popular statewide vote. The colorful species, also known by their scientific classification, Rhinecanthus rectangulus, or “trigger fish,” can even be found in popular Hawaiian songs such as Don Ho’s “Little Grass Shack.” It’s not uncommon to run into these brightly colored fish while snorkeling…

Maggie Brown, Owner Body Glove Cruises Maritime history is rich with legendary tales of cantankerous, heroic seamen. Taking to the sea is primarily thought of as a male dominated career and past time, however women have always been a part of this rich history. In fact, there are many places where women are moving beyond traditional gender stereotypes and taking the lead in owning and operating boating businesses. Kailua-Kona, Hawaii is one such place. Kailua-Kona on the Island of Hawaii, is a hot spot for tourists who wish to venture out into the deep blue. Water activities such as snorkeling, whale watching, and dinner cruises are just a few of the offerings boating businesses provide. For too long, boating has been a male-dominated industry, however in this small town, women make up a significant percentage of boating business owners. Maggie…