Red Sea 2010 Calendar

Wow Thanksgiving is this week! And Christmas and 2010 is right around the corner. Well if you need a calendar to keep track of your days stay tuned for the 2010 Red Sea Calendar. Some sick shots of some of the most exotic places in the world with underwater, sunsets, diving & cultural images that will inspire you! It will be available beginning of December and will make the perfect Christmas gift! Contact me to see how you can get your copy!

Hanauma Bay

Today I had a early photo shoot at Hanauma bay. I haven't been here in years and it's no wonder why so many tourists come here for the spectacular views and friendly fish. If you are local then it's free but tourists pay over $7.00 to get in. I paddled outside the breakers with a $1 inflatable flourescent red mattress as the lifeguards thought I was either crazy or ready to be saved. There reef was sticking out where you see waves and no wonder the mattress did not pop as I charged over the reef.

Then James aka "McGuyver" calls to go over and see the HGEA craft fair. Lot's of nick nacks and food items to buy.

And I come across my friend Alan Watanabe from "SUMO BENTO" selling plate lunches. They have been doing this for years and was stoked to see him again. Thanks for the grinds! Weather should be clearing up in the next few days and winds backing down a little so get ready to go dive or surf.

Dream on

Lot's of fun surf been coming through our islands so not much diving at the moment. Today is small so good day to get on the computer and get some work done to start planning our next trip. Last year we got some great surf in Indonesia and I think we will need to revisit some of our secret spots real soon. Here's a shot Renee Vento captured at a fun right-hander with just four of us out. I can't wait to surf it again! Until then, I can only dream on!

Churaumi Aquarium

On our visit to Okinawa we got to see the Churaumi Aquarium. It was a long drive north but well worth it. Huge Uluas, Tunas, and even Whale sharks can be seen in the main tank. You need at least 2 hours to get to see all the exhibits and if you are lucky can even see the feeding of the Whale sharks. Okinawa is really a relaxed place and the people are so friendly. I can't wait to go back for another visit. Mensore!

Ama-san divers

Two things women don't like to be asked is how old they are and their weight... Well not with these two ladies...they are the true "Ama-san Divers". These two inspirational ladies 80 years and 72 years young have given me hope as I filmed them dive for abalone in traditional Japanese style. Having filmed lots of divers targeting various fish, this was my dream trip fulfilled. The real deal...with no spearguns and no fins these two ladies showed me what diving is all about as they had amazing bottom time filling up their bags while competing against each other. We got some incredible footage of them in action and can't wait to start working on the show!

We also visited the exact spot where the movie "The Cove" was filmed. If you look closely you can even see dolphins in the net. We met local fisherman and talked with them to get their side of the story and learned a lot about their culture and lifestyle. We had a big group of 18 travelers and everyone was blown away by the experience of a lifetime. Thank you to Kirby-san, Kimura-san, Atsuko-san, Genki-san, Takahashi-san, Ama-sans and our travelers who have made our dreams come true!

Team Hokulani

Team Hokulani just returned from another epic "Mentawai Surf Adventure". Ten local boys from Hawaii scored double to triple overhead surf and came safely. This was their second trip on board the "Naga Laut" and with their Captain, Guide, Cook, Deckhand, and Mechanic they were surfing their brains out. Mentawai's is one of the most consistent surf spots in Indonesia and with over a dozen "world class" spots to choose from it's no wonder why it's called the "Ultimate Boat Trip". Welcome home guys!

4th Hawaii Fishing Seafood Festival

Hope everyone has been enjoying these variable winds! Weather you surf/dive/fish you gotta love this weather. This weekend, Sunday Oct 11th is the 4th annual Hawaii Fishing Seafood Festival at pier 38. Come down and check out our "Red Sea" booth as we have all kinds of trips, apparel, gyotaku, dvds, and even get your autograph from our TV host of Hawaii Skin Diver, Merlina Garma. She draws in the crowd and last time created a line of people wanting her picture. It's a great event for the family and we look forward to seeing you there!