
Ke Kahua,
Our Foundation
Nā Kālai Wa`a (NKW), is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, established in 1993. NKW is dedicated to the continued practice of Hawaiian sailing canoe traditions. Mauloa was the first wa`a built in 1993 through traditional methods and with traditional materials. In 1995, Makali`i, a 54 foot double hulled voyaging canoe was completed and launched. These wa`a provide a vessel for educational and cultural experiences in the community, firmly instilling a sense of kuleana to each other and to our Earth. Built upon this foundation, Nā Kālai Wa`a provides activities and programs designed to support community involvement while maintaining the seaworthy integrity of Makali`i and the vessels in her family. Makaliʻi turned 30 on February 4, 2025! Over the years, we’ve built an ʻohana, trained new voyagers, and sailed to places like Kahiki, Satawal, and Mokumanamana. What we've learned: it’s the time spent together—preparing with family and community—that makes it all possible. We’ve got big work ahead to repair our moku and waʻa so we can keep voyaging. Your support makes it happen!

Updates from our Blog...

Makaliʻi
ʻōpeʻa
spar
ʻpeʻa
main sail

kia
mast
kaula peʻa
tricing lines
manu ihu
bow
paepae
boom
kaula paepae
sheet lines
ʻākea
starboard hull
manu hope
'ōpe'a
spar
pe'a
main sail
stern
kaʻele
hull
hoe uli
steering paddles
Laulima
Collaborative Work
Na Kalai Waʻa and Makaliʻi has created many opportunities and experiences, but most importantly, we bring together, people. If we stand for anything, itʻs community.




ʻOhana Makaliʻi
Ohana Makaliʻi is the heart and minds of everyone who helped bring Makaliʻi to life—and all who continue to support Nā Kālai Waʻa’s voyaging and education. It began on Mauna Loa, searching for a koa tree to build Mauloa, our first canoe. Like people, waʻa are born into ʻohana—Mauloa, Makaliʻi, Hokuliʻiliʻi, and Alingano Maisu are part of ours. Today, the Makaliʻi ʻohana is over 1,000 strong and growing. There is mana in our togetherness-this magic felt deeply as we celebrate 30 years in 2025. In 30 years Makaliʻi has created many many opportunities and experiences, but most importantly. she brings together, people. If Makaliʻi stands for anything, itʻs community. As Papa Mau would say "stick together" so our waʻa, our moku and we can thrive.