Name: Helen Wheatley

Originally From: Kansas City, Missouri

Worked For Trilogy Since: 2021

Trip You’ll Most Likely Find Me On: Discover Molokini

Where Do You Go On Vacation? Back home to see the fam

Favorite Restaurant on Maui: Kapenas!

Most Interesting Place You’ve Had A Passenger From: I met an amazing guy named Hector who grew up in Ecuador and worked with the president and United Nations. He had a beautiful view on life in the face of persecution. He’s now retired in San Diego and we still keep in touch!

Favorite Place On Maui: Iao Valley

Coolest Thing You’ve Seen While Snorkeling: Four spotted eagle rays just drifting along with the current

Why Is Sustainability Important To You, Or What’s Something That You Do To Try and Live More Sustainably? As a species we’ve evolved from the water, we’re made up of water, and the oceans are the lifeblood of our planet. Being in the water is like coming home to the womb of Mother Nature. We must protect her at all costs!

I’ve been living more sustainably by reducing my single use plastics—saying no to takeout utensils and buying products in glass containers. 

What’s An Element Of Hawaiian Culture Or Tradition That You Respect, Appreciate, Or Value? Hawaiians place such a big emphasis on caring for their kupuna (elders) and respecting their ancestors. They see and feel their presence in nature all the time. The concept of ‘aumakua—a spiritual ancestor that returns to you in the form of an animal for protection—is something I really consider to be special. We have to remember where we’re from to understand who we can become!

What Makes You Stoked To Work For Trilogy? The fact that I can jump in the water half way through my shift, chat with amazing people from all walks of life, and teach folks about these beautiful islands—my job at Trilogy is a dream come true!

Have you been on one of our Maui snorkeling tours with Helen? 

Leave her a comment to say hi, share a memory, or let her know how much you enjoyed it!