Our programs
Waʻa as a Living Classroom
Kānehūnāmoku Voyaging Academy offers a continuum of waʻa-based learning opportunities that serve students, educators, and community members at every stage of their journey. Through the canoe as a floating classroom, participants build maritime skills, strengthen leadership, and deepen their connection to culture, community, and place.
From E Holo Mau, which brings waʻa-based education into schools and communities, to Hoa Mau, which prepares adult learners to become educators and practitioners, and Hālau Holomoana, which develops the next generation of maritime leaders, each program is grounded in the knowledge, values, and practices of Hawaiian canoe culture while inspiring lifelong learning and stewardship.
Beyond these core programs, KVA partners on additional initiatives that expand access to waʻa-based learning while supporting the continued practice and perpetuation of the knowledge, values, and traditions that have been shared with us.
From E Holo Mau, which brings waʻa-based education into schools and communities, to Hoa Mau, which prepares adult learners to become educators and practitioners, and Hālau Holomoana, which develops the next generation of maritime leaders, each program is grounded in the knowledge, values, and practices of Hawaiian canoe culture while inspiring lifelong learning and stewardship.
Beyond these core programs, KVA partners on additional initiatives that expand access to waʻa-based learning while supporting the continued practice and perpetuation of the knowledge, values, and traditions that have been shared with us.
Ho'ākea: Mauka to makai
Hoʻākea: Mauka to Makai is a Hawaiʻi Department of Education initiative that brings place-based, waʻa-centered learning into public schools across the islands. Launched in 2023, Hoʻākea uses ʻāina and waʻa as living classrooms, engaging students through hands-on learning experiences that connect academic learning with place, culture, community, and stewardship. Since Hoʻākea began in Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu, the initiative has expanded across the pae ʻāina and reached over 26,000 students, creating opportunities for learners to build knowledge, confidence, and a deeper sense of kuleana to Hawaiʻi.
