Meet Captain Kelsey- owner of Da Whale Boat and international swim-with-whales guide/host

Kelsey Waliszewski is the founder of Da Whale Boat on Big Island, Hawaii.  She is an avid kiteboarder, former triathlete, world traveler, and overall entrepreneur. Kelsey’s love for challenge and adventure is a huge part of who she is. “I believe women are capable of anything they put their mind to, and I have tried to exemplify that truth statement in my life.” Her more recent endeavor, tied to the boat business, is For Children to Flourish, teaching character development and sustainable lifestyle practices using the resources of the ocean so kids can find hope and accelerate healing in their lives.

Her heart to help others is ultimately the purpose of her existence, which has been cultivated in her love for Jesus. Although working full time, she believes in giving back to the community, and has served at Heart Ranch and Ho’ola Na Pua here on the Big Island, Hawaii. Find her on social media @captainkelseyhawaii

She is also the host of The Talking Story Podcast, a podcast that shares stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things hoping to give the listener tools to positively impact their community and use their life for purpose. Her co-host, Bob Waliszewski is her dad, a retiree from Focus on the Family where he was the Director of Plugged In and was on KLOVE radio every Friday. Their series, ‘Onipa’a: Building Resiliency, is a popular tool to help people push through pain and walk in purpose. Listen to Kelsey’s story here on The Moxie Podcast

Learn more about her heart for Business that makes a difference in her conversation with Molly Stillman.

Learn more from Kelsey about Sex Trafficking in her conversation with The Clapback Couch Podcast.

Learn more about projects in Hawaii and Africa (how the Children’s book started) www.forchildrentoflourish.org

Here’s another interview with Kelsey about why caring about where we spend our money is important!

Meet Captain in Training- Sarah Curry- Award Winning Environmental Film Maker

Founder of South Florida-based nonprofit Sereia Films, Sarah is dedicated to telling the story of sustainable seafood through film and community events. She received her Master’s in Environmental Journalism and has produced award-winning documentaries and web shorts shown at national and international film festivals and have been featured on PBS and the Miami Science Museum. With a marine biology background, Sarah is excited to grow in her love for the ocean, especially the humpback whales.

Meet Deckhand Eden and Snorkel Guide Extraordinaire 

Eden is a dedicated and hardworking deckhand with a passion for the ocean. Whether spotting humpback whales, locating and identifying exotic sea creatures during daytime reef snorkeling tours, or guiding groups during nighttime manta ray excursions, Eden is a reliable and skilled crew member who takes pride in contributing to a safe, fun, and educational experience for all.

Meet Fisherman Ocean who happens to be a Professional Baseball Player

Ocean Gabonia is a professional baseball player and waterman. “I grew up in Hawaii learning everything and anything about the Ocean. From fishing, spearfishing, and surfing. I get to experience many exciting things while I work like catching fish, talking stories, and cruising on Da Whale boat. Here, you get to experience all the wonderful creations, adventures, and excitement that God has blessed us with.”

Meet Captain G- Award Winning Photographer and Incredible Storyteller of Hawaii

Captain G (Gerald) was born and raised in the Hawaiian Islands and has spent his life on the ocean. For more than a dozen years he’s been captaining out of Kawaihae, getting to know the waters, the reefs, and its marine life up close. An award-winning photographer, lifelong waterman, and experienced shark diver, Captain G has a deep love for Hawai‘i’s marine life.

More than just a Captain, he’s a storyteller. Captain G shares the legends, myths, and history of Hawai‘i, bringing the islands’ culture and traditions to life on every trip. Whether spotting a breaching whale, exploring a vibrant reef, or diving with sharks, he connects guests to the ocean in a way that feels personal and authentic. Every journey with Captain G is more than a tour, it’s a chance to experience the magic and meaning of Hawai‘i’s waters as he has for a lifetime.

Meet Captain Steve- our expert from Alaska

Steve has a passion for God, people and whales. Raised on the waters of Puget Sound, outside Seattle, Steve moved to Juneau, Alaska where he has been a whale watching boat captain for 18 years and the founder of Alaska Humpback Adventures. Married for 39 years, Steve and his wife, Janet, have 7 children and 11 grandchildren. Steve comes to Hawaii excited to experience the warmer waters and weather, just like the whales.