Blue ʻĀina in Action: Trilogy & Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute Unite to Restore Maui’s Mother Reef

At Trilogy Excursions, caring for the ocean isn’t something we talk about only on shore — it’s something we actively live, sail, and steward every day. This December, that commitment came to life during a special Blue ʻĀina Sail in partnership with the Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute (MOCMI) — a day dedicated to coral restoration, community collaboration, and protecting Maui’s reefs for generations to come.

A Different Kind of Sail — Purpose-Driven and Powerful

On December 3rd, Trilogy proudly provided a vessel and crew members who volunteered alongside MOCMI scientists and partners for a hands-on coral outplanting project at Olowalu Reef, often called Maui’s Mother Reef. This reef plays a vital role in helping seed coral populations across South and West Maui, as well as neighboring islands including Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi .

Captain Riley Coon, carrying forward the Coon ʻohana legacy, reflected on the day:

“This month’s Blue Aina looked a little different. On December 3rd, we were able to provide a vessel and many of our staff joined as volunteers to learn from the MOC marine institute and assist where possible with their coral outplanting project at Olowalu — Maui’s Mother Reef.”
— Riley Coon

With calm seas and beautiful weather, the conditions aligned perfectly for meaningful conservation work — a reminder that when the ocean invites us in, responsibility comes with the privilege.

Climate-Wise Coral Restoration at Olowalu

This outplanting effort is part of the NOAA Ruth D. Gates Coral Restoration Innovation Grant, supporting climate-wise coral restoration through community collaboration. During this phase alone, 1,162 coral fragments were carefully out planted at Olowalu — corals selected for their resilience and tested for thermal tolerance to better withstand warming ocean conditions.

The project brings together an incredible network of partners, including the Coral Resilience Lab, Kuleana Coral Restoration, and the Restore with Resilience (RWR) initiative — all working toward a future where coral restoration is science-based, transparent, and community-powered.

As Dustin, Executive Director of Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute, shared:

“This partnership with community members, local businesses, and marine operators is the first step towards a more resilient future where communities can actively protect and restore the natural resources we all love and depend on.”

Beyond the reef: Cleaning up ukumehame

The impact didn’t stop with coral. After completing the out planting, the team shifted focus to the Ukumehame River mouth, an area heavily impacted by land-based pollution and fishing debris.

“This place is littered with fishing line. We couldn’t believe the sheer amount of marine debris we removed in less than 15 minutes — over 45 pounds,”
— Riley Coon

Fishing line poses serious threats to turtles, fish, and coral alike. Removing it is a small action with an immediate life-saving impact — one that reinforces why Blue ʻĀina means caring for the land and the sea as one connected system.

Why blue ʻĀina is so important to us

Trilogy was founded on the belief that the ocean gives generously — and it’s our responsibility to give back. From the very first hand-built catamaran in 1971 to today’s modern fleet, stewardship has always been part of our voyage.

“We envision a future where our boats and staff can help do more coral outplanting to help Maui’s reefs battle the challenges they face from constant runoff and land-based pollution,”
— Riley Coon

That future is already taking shape.

By partnering with organizations like MOCMI, Trilogy continues to blend sailing, education, and conservation, offering experiences that go beyond sightseeing and create lasting, meaningful impact.

sailing forward— together

Blue ʻĀina sails remind us that protecting Maui isn’t a one-day effort — it’s a lifelong commitment. When guests choose Trilogy, they’re not just joining a sail; they’re supporting a family-owned company that believes lifelong memories are best made when they’re rooted in respect, connection, and aloha.

From restoring reefs to removing marine debris, this is what it looks like when community, science, and heart come together — on the water, where it all begins.

To see this Blue ʻĀina sail in action, click here.

Mahalo nui loa to Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute, our partners, and every volunteer who showed up for Maui’s ocean. We’re honored to sail alongside you.

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