Cover the Earth Before the Earth Covers Us

The ocean has been our teacher, our sanctuary, and our constant companion. For the past ten years, my husband Tui and I have traveled the world as Polynesian Ambassadors—or more fittingly, Ambassadors of Aloha. It has been a decade of sharing our culture, embracing new experiences, and learning life lessons that could only come from the vast and endless sea.

As we celebrate this milestone, I want to reflect on some of the invaluable lessons the ocean has taught us about life, love, and the spirit of Aloha

1. Aloha is More Than a Greeting—It’s a Way of Life

Aloha is not just a word; it is a guiding principle. It means love, peace, compassion, and respect. Over the years, we have witnessed how powerful the spirit of Aloha can be. It bridges cultures, fosters friendships, and transforms strangers into 'ohana. Whether on a cruise ship sharing the beauty of Polynesian music and dance or connecting with people from different walks of life, living with Aloha has brought immeasurable joy and purpose to our journey.

2. Go With the Flow, But Steer Your Canoe

The ocean is both serene and unpredictable. It reminds us that while we cannot control everything, we can choose how we navigate the waters. There have been times in our travels when plans have changed unexpectedly—flights canceled, itineraries disrupted, even natural disasters reminding us of nature's power. But like seasoned voyagers, we have learned to adjust our sails, trust the journey, and embrace the adventure.

3. The Power of Partnership

Marriage, like the ocean, is ever-changing. Some days are smooth sailing, while others bring stormy seas. Traveling and working side by side with my husband for a decade has strengthened our bond in ways we never imagined. We have learned to communicate without words, to lift each other up when one is weary, and to celebrate every little victory along the way. Just as Polynesian wayfinders rely on the stars and their crew, we have found that the secret to a thriving partnership is trust, respect, and an unwavering commitment to the journey.

4. Respect the Ocean and It Will Provide

Our ancestors have always understood the importance of respecting the sea. It is a source of life, nourishment, and wisdom. Through our travels, we have seen firsthand the impact of environmental conservation—and the consequences of neglecting it. Whether it’s reducing plastic waste, supporting sustainable tourism, or educating others about our responsibility to care for the ocean, we believe that honoring the sea is a crucial part of living with Aloha.

5. Every Wave Brings a New Opportunity

Change is inevitable, and the ocean constantly reminds us of this truth. Every wave that rolls in carries new possibilities. Throughout our journey, we have had the privilege of meeting incredible people, experiencing different cultures, and discovering new passions. From performing on world-class stages to mentoring the next generation of Polynesian artists, we have embraced every opportunity that has come our way. Life is a series of waves, and it’s up to us to ride them with courage and grace.

6. Home is Not Just a Place—It’s the People You Love

As we have traveled across continents and oceans, we have realized that home is not just where we were born; it is where we feel a sense of belonging. Whether in Hawaii, Samoa, or aboard a cruise ship in the middle of the Pacific, we have built a home through the connections we have made. The friendships we have formed, the lives we have touched, and the love we have shared make every place feel like home.

7. Live With Gratitude and Share the Blessing

One of the greatest lessons the ocean has taught us is the importance of gratitude. Every sunrise over the water, every rainbow after the rain, and every beautiful soul we have met along the way is a gift. And with these blessings comes a responsibility—to give back, to uplift others, and to share the Aloha Spirit with the world.

Looking Forward to the Next Chapter

As we celebrate ten years as Ambassadors of Aloha, we are filled with gratitude for the journey so far. The ocean has given us more than we could ever repay—wisdom, adventure, and a deeper understanding of what it means to live with purpose and passion. Looking ahead, we are excited for the new horizons, new stories, and new ways to share Aloha with the world.

Heres a few of our cruise favorites we love to have while sailing. If you can relate then these items could be for you too :

These are items that have made our adventures smoother and more meaningful, and I hope they will do the same for you.

May you always find joy in the journey, strength in the storms, and Aloha in your heart

Mahalo nui loa for being part of our voyage. Here’s to the next ten years and beyond!